Ouigo leads Spanish high-speed rail price competition

Ouigo has emerged as the most competitive low-cost operator in the Spanish high-speed rail market during the first half of 2026. According to CNMC data, the SNCF-owned operator offers the lowest average fares across several key routes, including Madrid-Barcelona, Madrid-Málaga, Madrid-Valencia, Madrid-Alicante, and Madrid-Sevilla, outperforming both Renfe and Iryo.

Despite improved profitability and revenue for the major operators, the sector faces challenges. Demand for long-distance travel has decreased due to inflation, rising costs, and the impact of a train collision in Adamuz (Córdoba) in January. This accident led Adif to implement speed restrictions, adding approximately 25 minutes to travel times on the critical Madrid-Barcelona corridor.

Amandine Thomas-Commin, General Director of Ouigo Spain, expressed concern before the Congress of Deputies regarding the loss of attractiveness of the Madrid-Barcelona line. The increased travel time, intended to allow Adif maintenance teams to work on infrastructure conservation, has impacted demand for all three major operators.