Image via LaPresse
According to a source familiar with the investigation, French authorities have begun a preliminary investigation into the alleged rape of Moroccan defender Achraf Hakimi.
A 24-year-old woman has accused the full-back of Paris St. Germain of raping her on February 25 at his house in the French capital. He denies the charges.
According to the source, the woman went to the police station on Sunday to report the event but did not press charges. The public prosecutor’s office in Nanterre, in the western suburbs of Paris, which is in charge of the case, declined to comment but made it clear that an inquiry had started.
“The club supports the player, who has firmly denied the accusations and trusts the justice system,” PSG said in a statement. “Paris St-Germain is an institution that promotes respect on and off the pitch.”
Hakimi, who was born in Spain, played a significant role in Morocco becoming the first African team to go to the World Cup semifinals in Qatar.
At the Best FIFA Football Awards ceremony held in Paris on Monday night, he was recognized for his contributions and included in the FIFPro men’s world squad of the year.
The 24-year-old accepted the prize while standing on stage with fellow winners, including Kylian Mbappe and Lionel Messi from his PSG squad.