Train drivers across Spain launched a strike on November 10, 2026, resulting in the cancellation of approximately 40% of long- and medium-distance train services managed by Renfe. The disruptions affected 4,042 passengers nationwide.
Fatal Train Crashes in 2026 Precipitated Strike
The industrial action followed two fatal crashes on Spain’s Madrid-Seville high-speed rail corridor earlier in 2026. The first, in January, killed 46 people. The second collision on October 28 caused 69 deaths when a controller instructed a Renfe train to proceed despite signal failure warnings, leading it to collide with a stationary Iryo-operated train. This prompted demands from the train drivers’ union Semaf for increased investment in
maintenance and stricter safety protocols.
Major Disruptions on Madrid and Barcelona Commuter Networks
The strike severely impacted commuter services in Madrid and Barcelona. Around 90% of Madrid’s Cercanias commuter trains were canceled, with at least five lines fully suspended and three others operating partially during the strike. Passengers in towns like Leganes near Madrid relied on substitute bus services. In Catalonia, the Rodalies network experienced delays and none of its lines operated on schedule, with 50% of local services in Barcelona canceled.
Government Response and Union Demands
The strike continued after talks between Semaf and the Spanish government to improve rail safety broke down in April 2026. Following the two accidents, Transport Minister
Oscar Puente resigned and was temporarily succeeded by Deputy Transport Minister Carlos Cuerpo. The government passed a decree granting train drivers the right to halt or refuse to start trains when serious imminent danger is present. Semaf has called for increased spending on maintenance, clear safety regulations including for severe weather conditions, and better automatic train protection systems.
The strike caused widespread travel delays on key routes such as Madrid-Barcelona and Madrid-Valladolid high-speed lines. Renfe permitted free ticket changes and cancellations but faced limited availability for rebooking, compounding impacts for affected passengers.
This rail strike coincided with preparations for Spain’s
largest nationwide general strike since 2012, planned by the country’s biggest unions for November 11, addressing housing and wage concerns.
