What's happened
French prosecutors have ordered PSG defender Achraf Hakimi to stand trial on rape charges after a woman accused him in 2023. Hakimi denies the allegations, which he says are false. His lawyer plans to appeal, and no trial date has been set. The case highlights ongoing issues in men's football regarding the #MeToo movement.
What's behind the headline?
The case against Hakimi underscores the persistent challenges of addressing sexual assault allegations in professional football. The decision to proceed to trial based solely on the woman's testimony, despite her refusal of medical and DNA tests, raises questions about evidentiary standards in such cases. The legal process appears to be influenced by broader societal debates about #MeToo and the treatment of accused athletes. The case also exposes the cultural gaps within men's football, where allegations of misconduct remain difficult to confront openly. The upcoming trial will likely test the French justice system's ability to balance due process with societal expectations of accountability. The case's outcome could influence how similar allegations are handled in the sport and beyond, potentially prompting reforms in investigative procedures and athlete protections.
What the papers say
The Independent reports that Hakimi's lawyer Fanny Colin plans to appeal the judge's decision, emphasizing that the case is based solely on the woman's word, who obstructed investigations and refused key evidence. Al Jazeera highlights Hakimi's public denial and his statement that he 'calmly awaits' the trial, which he believes will reveal the truth. Both sources note the broader societal implications, with Pardo from AFP commenting on the #MeToo movement's limited reach in men's football. The AP News adds that the case remains unresolved, with no trial date set, and emphasizes the legal context of preliminary charges in France, which suggest strong suspicion but require further investigation.
How we got here
Hakimi, a Moroccan international and PSG player, was accused of rape by a woman in March 2023. The investigation was initiated after the woman alleged she was assaulted at Hakimi's Paris suburb home. French legal procedures involve preliminary charges, allowing time for further investigation before trial. Hakimi has consistently denied the allegations, criticizing the process and the evidence presented.
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Achraf Hakimi Mouh is a professional footballer who plays as a full-back for Ligue 1 club Paris Saint-Germain and the Morocco national team. Mainly a right-back or right wing-back, he can also play on the left or as a winger. Born and raised in Spain, he