Achraf Hakimi has broken his silence after it was confirmed that he will face trial on sexual assault charges in France. The Morocco international, currently competing at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, issued a statement on social media expressing his frustration and maintaining his innocence.
Background of the Case
The charges stem from an incident on February 25, 2023, when a young woman filed a complaint at the Nogent-sur-Marne police station. She alleged that she was at Hakimi's home the previous day at 1:15 am and was sexually assaulted. Hakimi has consistently denied the allegations.
In the summer of 2025, French prosecutors sought to bring the Paris Saint-Germain star to trial. Hakimi appealed against this decision, but his appeal was rejected. The court ruled that there was sufficient basis for him to stand trial in a criminal court for sexual assault, with proceedings expected to begin in the coming months.
Hakimi's Reaction
In a statement posted on his X (formerly Twitter) account, Hakimi claimed he is a "soft target" and that his fame has made him vulnerable. He wrote: "The Justice looked me right in the eyes and said: 'If you weren’t famous, there wouldn’t be an affair.'"
He added: "I chose to keep quiet for years. I thought that remaining dignified, being patient, and trusting in justice would allow for the correct decisions to be taken. Now, a story that is not my own is being told to the detriment of my family, my life, and, most of all, to truth. I sometimes get the feeling of having become an easy target."
Hakimi expressed relief that the case is moving forward, stating: "I have been awaiting this process from the very first day, and now I await it with impatience. Finally, I will be able to speak."
Impact on Personal Life
The allegations have had significant personal consequences for Hakimi. According to reports from Al Arabiya English, his ex-wife Hiba Abouk filed for divorce immediately after the allegations became public. Abouk has reportedly demanded approximately $11 million in a divorce settlement, with court proceedings ongoing to finalize the terms of the separation.
In a separate development, Hakimi previously addressed viral claims that his wages are paid into his mother's bank account amid the divorce settlement dispute. While he did not confirm or deny the reports, he acknowledged his mother's role in managing his finances.
