MEP Borja Giménez Larraz (PPE) has questioned the European Commission about the sharp decline in high-speed train use in Spain, which he attributes to recurrent service interruptions and delays. In a written parliamentary question dated 6 July 2026, Larraz warns that the deterioration threatens EU connectivity and competitiveness goals, and calls on the Commission to assess the network's management.
The question cites a 19.6% drop in high-speed rail journeys in 2026, with a 15% fall in April alone, contrasting with a 1.9% average increase in overall public transport use. Larraz points to over five major incidents on main corridors in 2026, including closures and restrictions, and notes that public support for the network has fallen from 93% to 75% in two years.
its assessment of the Spanish network's state; whether it will request detailed information from the Spanish government on the causes of the decline; and whether it will evaluate if the network's management hinders European objectives for rail connectivity, competitiveness, and modal shift.
The question follows the Commission's November 2025 high-speed rail plan, which aimed to improve connections and cut travel times across Europe. Larraz's intervention signals concern that Spain, despite having Europe's largest high-speed network, may be undermining EU ambitions due to operational failures.
Under EU rules, the Commission is expected to reply within approximately six weeks. The answer will indicate whether Brussels plans to escalate scrutiny of Spain's rail management or propose corrective measures. The issue affects passengers, rail operators, and EU transport policy coherence, with potential implications for investment in high-speed infrastructure.