Paris Saint-Germain full-back Achraf Hakimi will stand trial for rape.

Hakimi is accused of sexually assaulting a woman, who was 24 years old at the time, in Val-de-Marne in February 2023 after they met on Instagram. The Morocco international has denied any wrongdoing.

The 27-year-old was formally charged and placed under judicial supervision in February but appealed the decision. The Versailles Court of Appeal confirmed this morning that the case will be heard before a criminal court.

A court statement read: “The investigations and the judicial information led the investigation chamber to conclude that there are sufficient charges against Mr Achraf Hakimi to justify his indictment before the departmental criminal court of Hauts-de-Seine.”

The plaintiff’s lawyer Rachel-Flore Pardo said in remarks reported by Le Parisien: “After more than three years of legal battle, after being slandered and dragged into the mud by Achraf Hakimi’s defence, this decision arouses relief and hope in my client.

“The relief of having been heard by the justice system and being entitled to a trial. The hope that this trial will help other women, and will crack a little more the fortress of denial and impunity of sexual violence, even in the world of men’s football.”

Finally, I will be able to speak – Hakimi

Hakimi, who is expected to captain Morocco in their Group C World Cup clash with Scotland tonight, said he welcomed the decision.

Writing on X, he said: “Justice looked me in the eyes and said to me: ‘If you weren’t famous, there never would have been a case.’

“I chose to remain silent for years. I thought that staying dignified, being patient, and trusting the justice system would allow the right decisions to be made.

“Today, a story that is not mine is being told at the expense of my family, my life, and above all, the truth. Sometimes I feel like I’ve become an easy target.

“I’ve been waiting for this trial since day one. And now I’m looking forward to it.

“Finally, I will be able to speak.”

Hakimi is widely regarded as the best right-back in the world having played a key role in PSG’s back-to-back Champions League successes.