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Date Published: 25/09/2024

High-speed train company Ouigo delays its debut between Andalucía and Madrid

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The rail operator is hoping to run from Sevilla, Malaga and Cordoba to Madrid by Christmas

High-speed train company Ouigo delays its debut between Andalucía and Madrid

The highly anticipated arrival of rail company Ouigo in Andalucía has been delayed due to a setback in the delivery of trains needed for the operation. The company had planned to launch ticket sales between Sevilla, Malaga and Cordoba and the capital of Madrid on September 26, but has now put the brakes on the process.

According to Ouigo, the delay on the high-speed line was “unavoidable” due to the complexities involved in installing the LZB safety system on its trains. This investment, worth 40 million euros, is a necessary step for the company to operate on Spain's first high-speed line.

Sadly, this isn't the first time the people of Andalucía have been let down by the French rail operator - this is actually the fifth time the Madrid connection has suffered set-backs and delays since it was first announced.

Despite the setback, Ouigo remains committed to reaching Andalucía “as soon as possible” and “always before the Christmas holidays.” The company's employees and suppliers are working tirelessly to ensure that the trains are ready for the tracks, the statement added.

Meanwhile, competitor Iryo is gearing up to launch a high-speed AVE rail connection between Barcelona and Malaga on December 15.

This exciting new route will connect Andalucía with northeast Spain, offering two frequencies a day, seven days a week, with stops in Zaragoza, Madrid and Cordoba. The journey between Malaga and Barcelona will take approximately 5 hours and 50 minutes.

The delay in Ouigo's arrival has given Iryo a head start in the Andalucían market. But Ouigo remains confident that it will be able to launch its services soon and compete with Iryo for a share of the region's rail market.

In other news: Spain delays introducing new tourist register until December

Image: Ouigo

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