Despite a recent ruling by the Cologne administrative court regarding the release of lucrative track sections to rail competitors, the Italian rail company Italo Group remains confident in its plans for entering the competitive German rail market. The company announced that while it has taken note of the verdict, it is awaiting the full justification for the court’s decision.
Italo confirmed its sustained commitment to entering the German long-distance transport sector. The company stated that it has invested the necessary capital for acquiring and maintaining a new fleet of trains, is proceeding with all market entry preparations as scheduled, and is determined to introduce effective competition into the German market starting in 2028.
The court ruled on Thursday that the Deutsche Bahn (German Rail) is not required to release at least a quarter of its capacity on highly utilized routes to competitors in long-distance travel. This decision effectively invalidated a previous urgent resolution issued by the Federal Network Agency.
Amid its drive into the German market, Italo is continuously expanding its fleet. In the summer, the company secured a major contract with Siemens worth €3.6 billion. This order involves the purchase of 26 Velaro-type trains, with an option for 14 additional units. The agreement also covers personnel training and a 30-year service contract, with construction taking place in Krefeld.
