A devastating collision between two high-speed trains in southern Spain has claimed the lives of at least 21 people and injured dozens more, authorities confirmed. The accident occurred on the evening of January 18, 2026, near Adamuz in the province of Córdoba along the Madrid–Andalusia high-speed rail route. According to Spain’s rail infrastructure manager ADIF, an Iryo high-speed train travelling from Málaga to Madrid derailed and crossed onto an adjacent track, colliding head-on with an oncoming Renfe Alvia service heading from Madrid to Huelva. Both trains subsequently derailed, causing s

A devastating collision between two high-speed trains in southern Spain has claimed the lives of at least 21 people and injured dozens more, authorities confirmed. The accident occurred on the evening of January 18, 2026, near Adamuz in the province of Córdoba along the Madrid–Andalusia high-speed rail route.

According to Spain’s rail infrastructure manager ADIF, an Iryo high-speed train travelling from Málaga to Madrid derailed and crossed onto an adjacent track, colliding head-on with an oncoming Renfe Alvia service heading from Madrid to Huelva. Both trains subsequently derailed, causing severe damage to carriages and creating a challenging rescue environment.


Passengers were taken to hospital and advanced medical posts near the site of the crash.

Emergency services, including fire crews, medical teams, civil guards and Red Cross personnel, responded swiftly and worked through the night to extract passengers from the wreckage. Around 100 people have been reported injured, with at least 25 in serious or critical condition and many others sustaining minor injuries.

Friends and relatives have been seeking information about their loved ones on board either train.

Spanish Transport Minister Óscar Puente described the derailment as “highly unusual” given that it occurred on a recently renovated, straight section of track, and said a full investigation has been launched to determine the cause. Rail services between Madrid and Andalusia remain suspended as authorities continue recovery efforts and support affected families.

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