Tragic Train Derailment in Córdoba Claims 21 Lives and Injures Over 100
A severe train derailment in Córdoba involving two high-speed trains left 21 dead and over 100 injured, prompting a massive emergency response and rail service suspensions.
- • At least 21 people died and over 100 were injured in the Córdoba train collision involving Iryo and Renfe high-speed trains.
- • The accident occurred when an Iryo train derailed and collided with a Renfe train on the opposite track near Adamuz.
- • Emergency services including military units and local residents participated in rescue efforts to aid trapped passengers.
- • Transport Minister Óscar Puente described the situation as very serious, and high-speed rail services between Madrid and southern Spain were suspended.
Key details
On January 18, 2026, a catastrophic train accident occurred in Adamuz, Córdoba, involving two high-speed trains, marking the worst railway disaster in Spain since the 2013 Santiago de Compostela derailment.
The accident happened when an Iryo train traveling from Málaga to Madrid derailed shortly after leaving Málaga, crossing into the opposite track where a Renfe Alvia train heading from Madrid to Huelva was traveling. The collision caused both trains to derail, with the first two carriages of the Alvia train falling down a six-meter embankment. At least 21 people lost their lives, and over 100 were injured, many seriously, with fears the death toll may rise further.
Emergency services, including the Guardia Civil, medical teams, firefighters, and the Military Emergency Unit (UME), responded rapidly to rescue trapped passengers and provide medical assistance. Local residents of Adamuz were also called upon to aid in the rescue efforts during the critical first hours. Affected passengers were evacuated, some breaking windows to escape, and people waited for alternative transportation to Madrid.
The tragedy has deeply shaken the community. In Huelva, an information point was established at the train station to support families, with police and psychologists available. Huelva’s mayor, Pilar Miranda, expressed condolences and emphasized the need to support victims’ families, while the Spanish Royal House extended its sorrow and condolences to those affected.
Transport Minister Óscar Puente described the situation as "very serious," emphasizing the urgency in assisting victims. In response, Adif suspended high-speed rail services between Madrid and southern Spain pending further investigations. European leaders like Ursula von der Leyen and Roberta Metsola conveyed their condolences, reflecting the gravity of the incident.
This accident highlights Spain's ongoing challenges in ensuring rail safety despite a decade without major incidents. It recalls past tragic railway disasters, including Torre del Bierzo in 1944 and Chirivella in 1980, underlining the importance of rigorous safety measures.
This article was synthesized and translated from native language sources to provide English-speaking readers with local perspectives.
