French court upholds rape trial for PSG star Hakimi

France's Court of Cassation has upheld a decision to send Moroccan footballer Achraf Hakimi to trial on rape charges stemming from an alleged incident in 2023. The court's confirmation ends Hakimi's legal challenge against the trial order, clearing the way for proceedings to advance in the French judicial system.

The 25-year-old Paris Saint-Germain defender has maintained his innocence throughout the process. His legal team had sought to have the case dismissed, but the country's supreme court for criminal matters determined there was sufficient basis for trial to proceed.

Hakimi, who has represented Morocco at international level and is a prominent figure in European football, has not been suspended from playing pending trial. PSG has not made public statements regarding the case or its potential impact on his status with the club.

The trial represents a significant development in a case that has drawn attention given Hakimi's high-profile status in professional football. French courts will now proceed with examination of the allegations in formal proceedings.