World Cup: Morocco star Hakimi to stand trial for rape, reveals if he’ll play tonight

Morocco captain and Paris Saint-Germain defender, Achraf Hakimi, is set to stand trial in France over an alleged rape case dating back to 2023.

The development comes on the day Morocco face Scotland in their 2026 FIFA World Cup Group C clash.

Despite the court decision, Hakimi remains available for the match and is expected to play for Morocco tonight.

A French appeals court reportedly confirmed that the 27-year-old footballer will face trial after rejecting his move to have the case dismissed.

Hakimi has consistently denied the allegation and insists he is innocent.

Reacting to the development, the PSG star said he had been waiting for the trial from the beginning, adding that it would finally give him the chance to speak publicly.

“I’ve been waiting for this trial from day one. Now I’m looking forward to it. Finally, I’ll be able to speak,” he said.

The allegation was first made in 2023 by a woman who claimed she was sexually assaulted at Hakimi’s home in Boulogne-Billancourt, near Paris.

Hakimi was later placed under judicial supervision and barred from contacting the accuser.

His lawyer has maintained that the case should have been dismissed, arguing that the investigation produced several elements in Hakimi’s favour.

Hakimi also posted on social media that he had chosen to remain silent for years because he trusted the justice system, but said he now wants the truth to be heard.

The trial date has not yet been fixed.

Hakimi is one of Morocco’s most important players at the ongoing World Cup and could play a key role when the North African side take on Scotland tonight.

Morocco opened their Group C campaign with a 1-1 draw against Brazil.