Deutsche Bahn faces scrutiny over €3 million executive bonuses in ZDF documentary

The public broadcaster ZDF released the documentary “Das Deutsche‑Bahn‑Desaster,” which alleges that Deutsche Bahn executives received almost €3 million in bonuses for 2025 despite the railway’s poor punctuality. The bonus scheme is tied to a 59 % on‑time rate in long‑distance traffic, well below the 65 % threshold required for full bonuses, and to a customer‑satisfaction grade of 2.6. Critics say the system sets low targets so that bonuses are paid regardless of performance. DB chief executive Evelyn Palla responded, describing the payments as a “variable component of remuneration” rather than bonuses. The film follows a previous ZDF report and intensifies an ongoing dispute between the broadcaster and Deutsche Bahn over the company’s management and digitalisation shortcomings.