France’s high-speed rail network was hit by a series of coordinated arson attacks on July 26, 2024, just hours before the opening ceremony of the Paris Olympics, causing massive disruptions to train services. The French national railway company SNCF reported that the attacks, described as a ‘massive attack’ and ‘coordinated sabotage,’ affected multiple lines, including the Atlantic, Northern, and Eastern high-speed routes.The sabotage is expected to impact approximately 800,000 passengers and last throughout the weekend, significantly disrupting both Olympic-related travel and vacation departures. SNCF President Jean-Pierre Farandou described the sabotage as ‘an attack on France and the French people’. The damage includes intentional fires in power supply conduits for signaling and communication systems, with up to 500 electrical and fiber optic cables affected.French officials have strongly condemned these ‘malicious acts.’ Transport Minister Patrice Vergriete stated, ‘Coordinated malicious actions targeted several TGV lines last night and will significantly disrupt traffic until the weekend. I strongly condemn these criminal acts that will put the holiday travels of many French people at risk’. Sports Minister Amélie Oudéa-Castera called the attack ‘completely appalling’ and branded the disruption ‘a sort of coordinated sabotage’.The SNCF has urged passengers to postpone their trips and avoid train stations. Many train connections with TGV high-speed trains have been cancelled, and some are being diverted to conventional lines. The company has announced that ticket holders on disrupted journeys will be contacted by email or text, and tickets can be exchanged or refunded for free.This attack comes at a time of heightened security concerns for the Olympics. The French government has deployed 35,000 police officers and 18,000 soldiers to prevent incidents during the games. The exact motives behind the attacks remain unclear, but the timing suggests a possible attempt to disrupt the Olympic Games.
Key points
- Coordinated arson attacks on France’s high-speed rail network occurred hours before the Paris Olympics opening ceremony.
- The attacks are expected to affect 800,000 passengers and disrupt services throughout the weekend.
- French officials have condemned the attacks as criminal actions targeting France and its people.
- The sabotage raises concerns about Olympic security and potential attempts to disrupt the games.
