Spain’s Rail Network Faces Disruption as Strike Looms
Over 330 high-speed train services across Spain are facing cancellation as a nationwide rail strike is set to grab place on February 9th, 10th, and 11th. The disruption will impact Renfe, Ouigo, and Iryo, affecting both high-speed and long-distance routes.
Impact on Train Operators
Renfe will cancel 272 trains, while the French operator Ouigo will notice 30 cancellations. Iryo, the Italian-controlled company, has 34 trains not guaranteed to run during the strike period. Despite the cancellations, the Ministry of Transport has mandated minimum service levels of 73% for high-speed and long-distance trains, excluding Catalonia and the Basque Country.
Why are Rail Workers Striking?
The strike is driven by demands for changes to the railway model and the restoration of safety standards following recent accidents in Adamuz and Gelida. Unions representing all levels of rail personnel – from operations to maintenance – are involved in the protest. The unions are seeking improvements across the entire sector, including Adif, Renfe, Iryo, and Ouigo.
Negotiations Continue, But No Agreement Yet
Negotiations between the Ministry of Transport and the unions are ongoing, but as of February 6th, 2026, no agreement has been reached. Representatives from CCOO, UGT, and Semaf have been involved in discussions with the ministry, led by Óscar Puente, but a resolution remains elusive.
Ongoing Delays on Madrid-Barcelona Route
Adding to the travel challenges, delays on the Madrid-Barcelona high-speed route are expected to continue until December 2026. Renfe, Iryo, and Ouigo have requested an extension to the current measures that reduce speed and add 25 minutes to the journey, a request approved by Adif.
Choosing Your Train: A Quick Guide
For those still planning to travel by rail in Spain, understanding the differences between operators is key. AVE and Iryo offer full-service options with multiple classes and catering, while Avlo and Ouigo are low-cost carriers with luggage restrictions and limited services.
FAQ: Spain Rail Strike & Travel
Will all trains be cancelled during the strike? No, minimum service levels of 73% will be maintained on high-speed and long-distance routes.
Which train operators are affected? Renfe, Ouigo, and Iryo are all impacted by the strike.
What is causing the strike? Unions are demanding improvements to safety standards and changes to the railway model.
Are there delays on other routes? The Madrid-Barcelona route is experiencing ongoing delays expected to last until December 2026.
Stay informed about the latest developments and plan your travel accordingly. For more information, visit the websites of Renfe, Ouigo, and Iryo.
