In an atmosphere charged with anticipation and emotion, the French Court of Justice witnessed a new dramatic chapter in the case of Moroccan international star Achraf Hakimi, a Paris Saint-Germain player, who is accused of rape dating back to February 2023. The session held yesterday (Thursday) was not just a routine judicial procedure, but turned into a moving human scene dominated by the tears of the player's mother, and notable support from his close friend and former teammate Kylian Mbappé.
Saida Mouh's tears... a motherhood that defies the dock
Achraf Hakimi's mother, Saida Mouh, stole the show in the courtroom. Overwhelmed by emotion upon seeing her son behind bars in the dock, she broke down in tears, a scene that deeply moved those present. Known for her close relationship with her son, having accompanied him through most of his football career and international accolades, seeing him in this situation was a particularly poignant moment.
In a desperate defense, the mother told the judge that her son was raised with respect for women, saying, "My son has great respect for women, and he would never force any woman to do something she didn't want to do." She swore she would stand by him to the end, expressing her belief in his innocence despite the anguish that gripped her heart.
Mbappe in court... friendship goes beyond the football pitch
Hakimi did not face this situation alone; the presence of French star Kylian Mbappé was a resounding surprise and a tremendous source of moral support. The relationship between the two at Paris Saint-Germain transcended mere camaraderie, becoming a close and internationally recognized friendship. Mbappé testified, saying, "He is a kind, respectful, and calm person, and he could not have raped a girl." This testimony from a star of Mbappé's stature is not considered physical evidence, but it carries significant moral weight before the public and the court, affirming the Moroccan player's ethical character.
Case details and legal defense
The case dates back to February 24, 2023, when a 24-year-old woman filed a report alleging she had been sexually assaulted at the player's home in a Paris suburb. After an investigation lasting nearly three years, the case was referred to the criminal court in February 2026.
For his part, Hakimi has consistently denied the charges from the outset, asserting that the complaint bears no relation to the truth. His defense team points to inconsistencies in the plaintiff's account, noting that Hakimi voluntarily surrendered his phone and underwent medical examinations, while the plaintiff refused similar procedures, raising questions about the accuracy of her claims. The lawyer explained that the meeting was consensual and that the plaintiff left the house without any apparent tension.
The impact of the case on the career of "The Lion of the Atlas"
This trial comes at a sensitive time for Achraf Hakimi, one of the world's best right-backs and a key figure in Morocco's historic qualification for the 2022 Qatar World Cup. Despite immense media and psychological pressure, the player has continued his professional performances. However, the specter of a potential 15-year prison sentence threatens to end his illustrious career. The Arab and international sports community awaits the final verdict, hoping for the truth that will exonerate the Moroccan star.
