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Renfe is gearing up for a legal fight after Congress passed a law forcing the rail operator to return to its previous compensation policy for train delays starting January 1 2026. This means passengers will again be entitled to 50% refunds for delays of 15 minutes or more and 100% for delays over half an hour, reversing the more lenient rules introduced last July. Under those, refunds were only paid for delays exceeding 60 and 90 minutes respectively.

 

However, Spanish Transport Minister Óscar Puente strongly opposes this change, calling it “unconstitutional” for violating Spain’s principle of free competition. He argues that the stricter punctuality requirements unfairly burden Renfe compared to its private rivals Ouigo and Iryo, which offer compensation only for much longer delays. Puente warns this will cost Renfe an extra 43 million euros annually; money the operator would have to recoup by hiking ticket prices, making it harder to compete.

 

Since the amendment was promoted by the People’s Party and backed by groups like ERC and Vox, Renfe has been seeking legal ways to avoid implementing the stricter refund rules. The Ministry of Transport is exploring loopholes to allow Renfe to maintain the current compensation system, which they say is fairer in a competitive market.

 

Passengers who faced delays on Renfe’s high-speed and long-distance trains between July 2024 and now have had reduced compensation, but from January next year those passenger rights will be restored. The debate continues around equal rules for all operators, as this requirement currently applies only to Renfe, Spain’s national railway company.

 

This latest move once again highlights the balancing act between protecting passenger rights and maintaining competitive, affordable train services in Spain’s growing rail market. But, for the time being, travellers can expect to see more generous delay compensation return in 2026… if Renfe’s legal challenges don’t change the outcome.

 

 

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