Italo's German high-speed rail launch faces delays over track access disputes

Italo, the Italian high-speed train operator, plans to launch services in Germany by 2028. The company has already invested over €25 million and signed preliminary deals with Siemens for the project. However, delays and disputes over rail access now threaten its timeline. Italo has pushed back production by ten months due to unresolved issues. CEO Gianbattista La Rocca insists the 2028 launch will not be delayed, despite ongoing disagreements over track allocation. The company wants a 10- to 15-year commitment for rail access in Germany, rather than annual renewals.

Siemens’ production window for Italo is closing, which could force changes to timing, costs, and strategy if no long-term agreement is reached. The first passenger boarding date remains a key factor in Italo’s plans. Without a track commitment by the end of June, the company faces a major dilemma. Italo has invested heavily and secured preliminary agreements, but its German launch depends on securing long-term rail access. If no deal is finalised soon, further delays or adjustments to the project may be unavoidable. The outcome will shape Italo’s future in the German high-speed rail market.