The case involving Achraf Hakimi, the Moroccan international and Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) star, has transcended the boundaries of sports, stirring significant political debate within France. This development follows the decision by an investigating judge to send Hakimi to trial on charges of rape, linked to incidents allegedly occurring in February 2023.
Hakimi’s legal troubles have ignited divergent reactions among political figures in Paris, reflecting a broader discourse on the athlete’s role amid ongoing judicial proceedings.
Political Divide and Judicial Background
The referral of Hakimi to court has polarized opinion among Parisian political contenders. Pierre-Yves Bournazel, a candidate for the Paris mayoralty representing the “Horizon – Renaissance” coalition, advocated for the footballer’s temporary withdrawal from the pitch during the trial. Speaking on the Apolline Matin program broadcasted by RMC, Bournazel emphasized that such a step would serve the interests of all involved parties, while acknowledging Hakimi’s right to the presumption of innocence.
Conversely, Rachida Dati, another mayoral hopeful, adopted a more cautious stance. In an interview with BFMTV, she underscored the paramount importance of upholding the presumption of innocence as a cornerstone of justice and refrained from calling for preemptive measures against the player.
The origins of this legal saga date back to February 2023, when a young woman accused Hakimi of assault at his residence in Nogent-sur-Marne. Although no formal complaint was initially filed, a judicial inquiry commenced, culminating in the charges being brought against Hakimi after nearly three years of investigation. The investigating judge’s decision to send the case to trial aligns with the prosecution’s requests in Nanterre.
Throughout the process, Hakimi has steadfastly denied the allegations, expressing a composed readiness to face trial and to publicly clarify the truth.
From a legal defense perspective, Hakimi’s team contends that the accusations are an extortion attempt, supported by correspondence from the accuser and psychological expert reports. His lawyer, Fanny Colin, has lodged an appeal against the indictment, arguing that the plaintiff obstructed justice by refusing medical examinations.
On the other hand, the accuser’s counsel refutes any claim of blackmail, affirming that both the investigating judge and the prosecution found sufficient grounds to proceed with the trial.
Meanwhile, Paris Saint-Germain has maintained its public backing of Hakimi. During a press conference, coach Luis Enrique remarked that “the matter is in the hands of the judiciary” before fielding Hakimi in the UEFA Champions League play-off second leg against Monaco.
Fan support has also been palpable at the Parc des Princes, where banners displaying solidarity with Hakimi were prominently displayed and his name chanted by supporters.
