Spain Rail Liberalisation: Adif, Adif AV’s 2026 Expansion Plan

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Introduction

Adif and Adif AV have proposed a framework for the second phase of rail passenger liberalisation in Spain, with operators invited to apply for access during 2026. The proposed corridors include Madrid–Galicia, Madrid–Asturias/Cantabria, and Madrid–Cádiz/Huelva.

Corridor Liberalisation

The proposed corridors, Madrid–Galicia, Madrid–Asturias/Cantabria, and Madrid–Cádiz/Huelva, are set to be opened to liberalisation. Operators are invited to apply for access during 2026.

Network Statement Amendment

The communication has been issued in advance of the publication of the offer as part of an amendment to the Network Statement (NS) of Adif and Adif AV, scheduled for 2026. This will allow operators to submit their observations. The publication in the NS will also be preceded by the corresponding report from the National Commission on Markets and Competition (CNMC), as stipulated by the Railway Sector Act.

The amendment to the Network Statement will include the framework capacity offer, the available time slots for train operations, the timetable, and the rules governing the development of the process.

Capacity and Agreements

Spain’s second rail passenger liberalisation phase consists of up to 72 new daily services. This includes 32 paths per day for the Madrid–Galicia route, 24 for Madrid–Asturias/Cantabria, and 16 for the Madrid–Cádiz/Huelva line.

Railway undertakings are invited to enter into multi-annual framework agreements with Adif/Adif AV. This aims to provide greater legal certainty to support investment and enable optimal timetable and operational planning.

Market Impact and Expansion

Since the liberalisation of passenger rail services, there has been a notable increase in demand across the various corridors. This is particularly strong on those served by three operators.

While the first framework capacity offer benefited 15 provinces, the second phase will include 13 additional provinces, reaching nearly 70% of the population.

Conclusion

The first capacity offer concluded in 2020 with the signing of three framework agreements with passenger rail operators. The first rail passenger liberalisation phase covered the high-speed lines between Madrid and Barcelona, as well as the Madrid–Valencian Community and Madrid–Seville/Málaga.

Company Summary

Adif: The infrastructure manager responsible for the Spanish railway network.

Adif AV: The infrastructure manager responsible for the Spanish high-speed railway network.

CNMC: The National Commission on Markets and Competition, responsible for overseeing the process.

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