PSG defender Hakimi set for rape trial after France's top court rejects final appeal
France's Cour de cassation rejected Achraf Hakimi's final appeal on Wednesday, clearing the way for a rape trial to proceed in the Hauts-de-Seine department. The Moroccan PSG defender faces allegations stemming from a 2023 complaint, with his lawyer Bertrand Périer confirming the court found 'no serious grounds' to admit the appeal. Complainant's lawyer Rachel-Flore Pardo stated her client remains determined to pursue justice after 'three and a half years of judicial combat,' emphasizing the case's significance for challenging impunity in sexual violence allegations. Neither lawyer disclosed details of the alleged incident, maintaining focus on the legal process. Hakimi, 26, has consistently denied the allegations throughout the investigation that began in March 2023. The trial date has not been set but is expected imminently following the appeal exhaustion. This case draws attention as it involves a high-profile African footballer playing in Europe's elite league, highlighting how such allegations are handled within international sports jurisdictions. The judicial process will now move to criminal court proceedings where evidence will be examined under French law.