EU prosecutors have opened a fraud investigation into funds for upgrading Spain’s Madrid–Seville high-speed line, where a 28 October crash near Urda killed 69. A similar probe began in March after a January crash on the same line killed 46.
The European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) has launched an investigation into possible fraud involving EU funds earmarked for the renovation and upgrading of the Madrid–Seville high-speed rail line, where an accident on 28 October near Urda, in Toledo province, left 69 people dead.
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The EPPO opened a similar investigation in March into the line’s renovation, after a train accident in January on the same route killed 46 people.
According to an EPPO statement, the investigation was opened on the prosecutor’s own initiative and targets the Administrator of Railway Infrastructure, the State Railway Safety Agency and the Court of Auditors. Spanish authorities have already begun gathering evidence.
“This measure follows the opening of an investigation into possible fraud involving European funds earmarked for the renewal and improvement of safety, signalling and communications systems on the Madrid–Seville high-speed rail line,” the EPPO said in a press release.
The EPPO is an independent EU body that investigates fraud involving European funds. The EU granted €111 million from its Regional Development Fund in 2024 for the railway’s renovation.
Transport Minister Óscar Puente resigned after the two accidents, which together killed more than 100 people. The latest crash could also weigh on the popularity of Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez ahead of Spain’s general election on 29 November.
Application period opens for Urda crash compensation
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Transport announced on Friday that applications are now open for compensation for victims of the Urda accident, in which a Renfe AVE train crashed into the rear of a stationary Iryo train. In addition to the 69 fatalities, more than 100 people are estimated to have been injured.
Those affected and their families can apply until 5 February 2027, either in person or through the ministry’s online portal. The aid includes non-repayable direct grants to cover immediate needs and advance payments of future compensation.
The government has also set up support offices at regional and sub-regional level to advise those affected and help them with the necessary procedures. People unable to travel because of health or mobility problems can receive assistance at home.