Backaccident
21 killed in high-speed train crash near Adamuz, Spain
A high-speed Iryo train from Malaga to Madrid derailed near Adamuz in Cordoba province, crossed to the opposite track, and collided with a Renfe train from Madrid to Huelva, killing 21 and injuring over 100.
Why It Matters
Deadliest high-speed rail incident in Spain in over a decade on recently renovated track, raising safety concerns for privatized rail services.
Timeline
4 Events
Operator statements and service suspension
January 18, 2026
Iryo issues statement lamenting incident and cooperating with authorities; Adif suspends high-speed services between Madrid and Andalusia cities through January 19.
Death toll confirmed at 21
January 18, 2026, midnight
Transport Minister Puente confirms 21 deaths after all survivors rescued; over 100 injured, 25 seriously; driver of Renfe train among dead.
Prime Minister and officials respond
January 18, 2026, evening
Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez expresses concern; Transport Minister Oscar Puente describes crash as 'very strange' on flat, renovated track with modern train.
Train derailment and collision
January 18, 2026, approx. 6:40:45 p.m. local time
Iryo train 6189 from Malaga to Madrid derailed near Adamuz shortly after leaving Cordoba, tail end crossed to adjacent track and collided with oncoming Renfe train from Madrid to Huelva.