Deadly Train Collision in Adamuz, Córdoba Claims 39 Lives; Investigation Underway

On January 18, 2026, a catastrophic train collision near Adamuz, Córdoba, left at least 39 dead and more than 150 injured, marking one of Spain’s worst rail disasters in the past decade. The accident occurred when the last three carriages of an Iryo train traveling from Málaga to Madrid derailed and collided with an oncoming Renfe Alvia train heading towards Huelva. Both trains were running at approximately 200 km/h on a straight and newly renovated section of track.

The Alvia train’s first two carriages were propelled down a four-meter embankment, intensifying the devastation. Rescue operations have been hampered by the challenging terrain. Spanish Transport Minister Óscar Puente described the incident as "tremendously strange," emphasizing that both trains were in optimal condition and recent maintenance had been conducted on the tracks and vehicles.

Initial investigations suggest broken tracks may have been involved, though whether this was a cause or consequence remains unclear. The Ministry of Transport and authorities have called for thorough scrutiny, with Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez committing to transparency and announcing three days of national mourning in Andalucía and Madrid.

Among the deceased are four members of the same family, heightening the tragedy’s impact. The community response has been strong, with local residents assisting emergency personnel, and public facilities like the San Andrés parish in Córdoba providing shelter and support to those affected. Psychologists have also been deployed to aid survivors and families, as misinformation risks worsening emotional trauma.

Prominent figures, including footballers Álvaro Arbeloa and Kylian Mbappé, have expressed condolences. Regional leaders, such as Andalucía’s President Juanma Moreno and First Vice President María Jesús Montero, praised the solidarity shown amidst sorrow. The incident has prompted the temporary suspension of events like the Cádiz Carnival.

Prime Minister Sánchez visited the accident site on January 19 to assess the situation first-hand. The government remains focused on clarifying the causes while reinforcing transport services disrupted by the tragedy. As search and rescue efforts continue, the full toll and implications of this grim collision are still unfolding.