Paris Saint-Germain and Morocco defender, Achraf Hakimi, could face up to 15 years in prison if found guilty of rape, as French prosecutors have formally requested that he be indicted following allegations made in February 2023.

Le Parisien reports that the case centres on claims made by a 24-year-old woman who claimed that Hakimi had sexually assaulted her at his house in Boulogne-Billancourt, which is located just outside of Paris.

According to the woman, Hakimi invited her over while his wife and kids were away, and they first connected on Instagram. She claimed that Hakimi raped her after kissing and touching her without her permission, despite her protests. Later, she told the police about the incident.

The 26-year-old claims the encounter was consensual and has denied the rape accusation. A countersuit has been filed in response to his lawyers’ claims that the football player is being extorted and that the accusation is untrue. 

In March 2023, Hakimi was placed under judicial supervision and barred from contacting the alleged victim. However, he was not detained and has continued to play for both club and country while the investigation remains ongoing.

The Nanterre prosecutor’s office has requested the indictment of Hakimi before the Hauts-de-Seine criminal court. An investigating judge will now determine if there’s sufficient evidence for a trial. If convicted, Hakimi could face up to 15 years in prison under French law.

Hakimi, currently regarded as one of the best right-backs in world football, after an exceptional season in which he won all domestic titles and lifted the UEFA Champions League for the first time with PSG, scoring 11 goals and making 16 assists across all competitions. 

He has played for top clubs such as Real Madrid, Borussia Dortmund, and Inter Milan before joining PSG. He was also a key player in Morocco’s historic semi-final run at the 2022 FIFA World Cup. 

Neither Hakimi nor his club, Paris Saint-Germain, has issued any new statements in response to the prosecutor’s request.