Spain high-speed train collision 2026: 39 dead after tragic crash near Córdoba

A devastating high-speed rail disaster has claimed at least 39 lives in southern Spain. The collision occurred on January 18, 2026, near Córdoba, leaving the nation in shock as rescuers continue to search for more victims in the wreckage.

The Spain High-speed Train Collision 2026 Context

According to rail operator Adif, the accident happened at 7:45 p.m. when an Iryo train—a private operator—traveling from Malaga to Madrid derailed. The tail end of the train slammed into a public Renfe train coming from Madrid. The impact was so severe that two carriages were knocked down a 4-meter slope.

Andalusia regional President Juanma Moreno confirmed that 75 passengers were rushed to nearby hospitals. The Spanish Red Cross has established a support center in Adamuz to assist emergency services and families seeking information about their loved ones.

Investigation Into a 'Strange' Incident

Spain's Transport Minister Óscar Puente described the crash as "truly strange." The collision took place on a flat stretch of track that had been renovated as recently as May 2025. Furthermore, the Iryo train involved was less than 4 years old, representing some of the most modern technology in the network.

With more than 3,100 kilometers of track, Spain operates the largest high-speed rail network in Europe. This tragedy marks the country's worst rail accident since the 2013 derailment that killed 80 people. Investigators say it could take up to a month to determine the exact cause of this latest catastrophe.