Rabat – Achraf Hakimi has opened up about how the rape allegations have impacted not only him, but also his family and children.
In an interview with Canal+France, Hakimi said that what he is going through is the “hardest thing” he has ever experienced.
In August, Le Parisien reported that the Atlas Lion could face trial over alleged rape charges.
This comes after an alleged complainant accused him of touching and kissing the accuser without consent, then “forcing himself on her.”
The woman claimed that she reported the incident to the police but initially did not file a formal complaint.
In his interview, Hakimi emphasized that the allegations and accusations are a lie.
“I know that I have not done anything and that I would never do that,” Hakimi said. He added that he is at peace, hoping that the truth will soon be revealed.
Hakimi, however, acknowledged that these lies are painful and are hurting his family.
“It hurts. It hurts my family, my children, who are still young and don’t know what the internet or reading is. I know that at some point in their lives they will read these things, and for me, seeing that something about their father was written-and on top of that, that it’s a lie, is not something pleasant. I wouldn’t wish it on anyone,” he said.
Hakimi also emphasized that he is cooperating with the police, and justice is doing its job.
The Atlas lion said that the case is a blackmail, accusing the complainant of attempting to take advantage of him and his career.
“And if you don’t have the right people around you, things like this can happen,” he said.
Messages found by investigators show the woman was texting a friend throughout the visit to Hakimi’s place. She claimed she was being assaulted, but also said in her police statement that Hakimi “was not violent.” Her friend came to collect her afterwards.
Some messages sent before the meeting also raised questions. In the messages, the woman and her friend joked and referred to playing the role of a “femme fatale.” One message said they were going to “crack the codes” and “rob him.” Hakimi’s lawyer said these messages suggest a possible attempt to financially blackmail him.
In his testimony, Hakimi said they kissed and laughed together, but that she made it clear nothing more would happen. He said he respected that and that she continued using her phone during the meeting. “She said nothing would happen the first night. I said OK,” Hakimi told investigators.
Accusations against Hakimi came out as his career was shining. Fans also questioned the timing, as his bid for the Ballon d’Or was securing enormous support from many, including football legends.
