Achraf Hakimi faces trial over allegations that he raped a 24-year-old woman at his home in Nanterre, Paris, in 2023. A public prosecutor's office began a preliminary investigation in March 2023 following the woman's complaint, and an investigating judge ordered a trial in February 2026. Hakimi's recent appeal to have the trial dismissed was rejected.
Hakimi, who has consistently denied the accusations, issued a statement on Friday: "The justice system looked me in the eye and said, 'If you weren't famous, there would never have been a case.' I've been waiting for this trial since day one, and now I'm eagerly awaiting it. Finally, I'll be able to speak." The plaintiff's lawyer stated her client felt "relief" and "hope" that the case will proceed.
The PSG defender is set to lead Morocco in their second group-stage fixture against Scotland on Friday at 23:00 BST. All three of Morocco's group matches are scheduled in the United States. However, should Morocco progress to knockout stages, Hakimi could face entry difficulties if matches are scheduled in Canada or Mexico, similar to Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey's recent denial of entry to Canada.
Morocco's knockout-stage competitive odds could be affected if Hakimi's trial is scheduled during their advanced-round matches, as the captain's potential absence would impact their defensive leadership and team stability.
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