Paris, France — Moroccan international and Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) star Achraf Hakimi is reportedly facing the possibility of up to 15 years in prison following a formal indictment over rape charges filed in France.
French prosecutors have continued investigations into allegations that first surfaced in early 2023, when a young woman accused the 25-year-old right-back of sexual assault at his Paris home. While Hakimi has firmly denied the allegations, the case has advanced significantly, with authorities reportedly moving closer to a full trial.
Legal experts familiar with French criminal law have noted that, if convicted, Hakimi could face a custodial sentence ranging from five to fifteen years, depending on the circumstances of the case and the outcome of legal proceedings.
Hakimi’s legal team has maintained his innocence, claiming the relationship in question was consensual and that the charges are unfounded. Meanwhile, PSG has refrained from making detailed public comments but expressed continued trust in the judicial process.
The allegations have cast a shadow over Hakimi’s professional career, which includes key roles in PSG’s domestic success and Morocco’s historic 2022 FIFA World Cup run to the semi-finals. Despite the charges, he has continued to feature for both club and country while the legal proceedings unfold.
The footballer was formally indicted earlier this year, a step in the French judicial process that indicates substantial evidence exists for the case to proceed. It does not equate to guilt but means Hakimi will likely face trial unless the case is dismissed before then.
The case has reignited public debate in France and beyond regarding the accountability of high-profile athletes and the broader issue of sexual violence in sports.
My News Ghana will continue to follow this developing story and provide updates as more information becomes available.
Source – My News Ghana
