Morocco captain Achraf Hakimi will stand trial in France after prosecutors confirmed that the Paris Saint-Germain defender’s rape case is moving toward a full hearing, according to a BBC Sport report. Hakimi denies the allegation and says he is waiting for the trial to defend himself publicly.

The case dates back to 2023, when a woman accused Hakimi of raping her at his home in the Paris area. French authorities opened a preliminary investigation in March 2023, and an investigating judge ordered a trial in February 2026.

The latest development means the case remains active in the French court system. The Associated Press also reported that a French appeals court confirmed Hakimi will stand trial, while noting that no trial date has yet been announced.

Hakimi’s legal team has denied wrongdoing, and the player said on social media that he had remained silent for years while waiting for the chance to speak in court. The complainant’s lawyer welcomed the decision, saying it gave her client relief after more than three years of proceedings.

The timing places extra attention on Morocco’s World Cup campaign. Hakimi is expected to lead Morocco against Scotland in their second Group C match on Friday, with the team currently based in the United States.

Morocco drew 1-1 with Brazil in their opening match and will also face Haiti in the group stage. Hakimi remains one of Morocco’s most important players, having helped the Atlas Lions become the first African nation to reach a World Cup semi-final in 2022.