Importance Score: 73 / 100 🔴
High-Speed Rail Link to Connect Madrid and Lisbon by 2030
As Spain and Portugal gear up to co-host the FIFA World Cup 2030 alongside Morocco, a significant infrastructure project is progressing: the construction of a new high-speed rail route. This ambitious undertaking aims to directly connect the capital cities of Madrid and Lisbon, with the expectation of becoming fully operational by 2030, enhancing travel between Spain and Portugal.
Reduced Travel Time and European Commission Approval
The direct rail connection between Madrid and Lisbon has been absent since 2020, following the discontinuation of Renfe’s overnight train-hotel service, Trenhotel Lusitania. This new high-speed line promises to dramatically decrease travel duration, from over 10 hours to a mere three hours. The project has also secured official endorsement from the European Commission, highlighting its importance for European connectivity.
EU Support for Iberian High-Speed Rail
Apostolos Tzitzikostas, the EU Commissioner for Transport, stated, “We’re developing a plan to strengthen high-speed connections among major European capitals, and the Madrid–Lisbon route is a high priority for us.” This statement underscores the European Union’s commitment to improving cross-border rail travel and supporting sustainable transport solutions.
Environmental Benefits and Expanded Network
The Portuguese government emphasizes that these enhanced rail links are crucial for decarbonizing transportation and lessening reliance on air travel between the two capitals. This initiative aligns with broader European goals for reducing carbon emissions in the transport sector. Furthermore, while prioritizing rail, Portugal is also considering airport expansion in Lisbon to improve overall connectivity for the nation.
Initial Phase and Iberian Network Expansion
The inaugural segment of Portugal’s high-speed rail line is anticipated to commence operations this year. This 100-kilometer (62-mile) section, stretching from Elvas to Evora, will significantly shorten travel time between Lisbon and Badajoz in western Spain, reducing it from over three hours to under two. This line is designed to be part of a larger Iberian rail network, eventually connecting Lisbon to Porto in approximately one hour and 15 minutes, a substantial reduction from the current travel time.
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Project Timeline and Infrastructure Considerations
According to the Spanish news source El Español, the envisioned rail line is projected to link Madrid and Lisbon, via Badajoz, in six hours by 2027. The ultimate goal is to achieve a three-hour journey by 2030, upon completion of the entire route. However, before cross-border train services can commence, several infrastructure challenges need resolution, as reported by La Información. These include addressing inconsistencies in electrical voltages and signalling systems between the two countries. Additionally, Renfe is required to invest €15 million (£12.8 million) to adapt portions of its train fleet to accommodate Portuguese railway infrastructure.
Background: Discontinued Madrid-Lisbon Train Service
Renfe suspended operations of the Madrid-Lisbon Trenhotel Lusitania in May 2020 due to the impact of the pandemic. The service has not been reinstated since. According to rail travel expert, The Man in Seat 61, the current train distance between Madrid Atocha and Lisbon Santa Apolonia, travelling via Badajoz and Entroncamento, is approximately 737 kilometers (458 miles).