On Tuesday, November 10, 2026, train drivers across Spain initiated a strike that led to widespread cancellations and delays affecting multiple rail operators. The strike caused 40% of long- and medium-distance train services to be cancelled, impacting 4,042 passengers according to Renfe. Additionally, 90% of Madrid’s commuter rail services were cancelled, and 50% of local trains in Barcelona were not operating.
Fatal Crashes Prompt Leadership Change and Safety Concerns
Earlier in 2026, Spain’s rail network experienced two fatal crashes on the Madrid-Seville high-speed line, resulting in 115 deaths. The initial crash in January killed 46 people, while the second collision on October 28 caused at least 69 fatalities.
Following these incidents, Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez appointed his deputy Carlos Cuerpo to lead the Transport Ministry provisionally after Oscar Puente resigned in the aftermath of the crashes.
Cause of Second Crash and Government Safety Measures
The October crash was attributed to a controller instructing a Renfe-operated train to proceed despite a signal failure and the presence of a stationary Iryo-operated train ahead on the same track. Attempts to negotiate enhanced safety measures between the government and the train drivers’ union began after the January crash but stalled in April 2026. On the day of the strike, the government approved new safety protocols, including clearer rules on calculating
train drivers’ working hours, establishing an ombudsman for accident victims, improving communication channels for safety concerns, and granting staff greater authority to stop trains if risks emerge.
Commuter Disruptions in Madrid and Barcelona
In Madrid, at least five commuter lines were completely suspended, with another three lines operating on limited schedules. Cercanias, the state operator, reported these service interruptions. Residents of Leganes, a suburb near Madrid, had to rely on bus transport to reach the city center. In Catalonia, the Rodalies network experienced significant delays, attributed to non-compliance with government-mandated minimum service levels. At the Masnou station outside Barcelona, passenger presence was limited due to intermittent
service during the strike.
Funeral for October Crash Victims and Anticipated Further Disruptions
King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia attended a funeral for the victims of the October 28 crash held at Toledo Cathedral on the same day as the strike. The ceremony included the transfer of a 16th-century effigy of Christ from the nearby town of Urda to Toledo. Following the strike, the country anticipates additional disruptions on November 11 due to a general strike expected to impact public transportation and business operations nationwide.
