Spanish rail workers strike following series of fatal crashes

Spanish train drivers held a nationwide strike on Tuesday, November 10, 2026, to demand increased investment in rail maintenance and safety protocols. The industrial action followed two fatal train crashes on the high-speed Madrid-Seville line this year, which resulted in a total of 115 deaths. Consequently, former Transport Minister Oscar Puente resigned last week, and Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez appointed Deputy Prime Minister Carlos Cuerpo to oversee the ministry on an interim basis.

The strike caused widespread disruption, with state operator Renfe cancelling approximately 40% of long- and medium-distance services, affecting 4,042 passengers. In Madrid, 90% of commuter services were halted, while 50% of local services in Barcelona were cancelled. In the town of Leganes, commuters were forced to rely on bus transport to reach the capital. Operations in the Catalonia region were further hindered by non-compliance with minimum service requirements, leading to significant delays for remaining passengers. The strike highlights the ongoing tensions regarding the safety standards of the national rail network and the political instability following the high death toll from recent accidents.