České dráhy contests RegioJet's takeover of R10 rail line

České dráhy (ČD) has filed objections regarding a tender for the R10 fast train line, which connects Prague, Hradec Králové, and Trutnov. The company is contesting the decision to award the contract to RegioJet, scheduled to begin operations in December 2028.

According to Jiří Ješeta, deputy general manager for passenger transport at ČD, the objections focus on the exceptionally low bid price submitted by RegioJet. In the tender, ČD requested 102.42 CZK per kilometer, while RegioJet offered 70.40 CZK per kilometer. The contract covers approximately 1.865 million kilometers annually.

If the objections are unsuccessful, ČD maintains the option to appeal to the Office for the Protection of Competition. Meanwhile, a petition has emerged calling for the Ministry of Transport to reconsider the selection process and maintain the R10 line under the management of České dráhy to ensure service continuity for commuters.