Banner in support of Achraf Hakimi, in the stands at Parc des Princes, Paris, on February 25, 2026. FRANCK FIFE/AFP
"Achraf, total support." On February 25, during the second leg of the UEFA Champions League play-off match against Monaco, Paris Saint-Germain's (PSG) ultras unfurled a banner at the Parc des Princes in Paris in support of Achraf Hakimi, the team's vice-captain. The day before, an investigating judge had ordered the player to stand trial for "rape" before a criminal court.
The supporters' highly visible message was quickly criticized by several advocacy groups and feminist activists, who pointed to the club's responsibility in the matter. On Instagram, Paris City Council member Alice Coffin (Greens) notably recalled being assaulted by Parc des Princes security when she tried to display a banner in support of female footballers who were victims of sexual assault in 2023.
Subscribers only
Why prosecutors want PSG's Achraf Hakimi to stand trial for rape
