French rail company SNCF reported that its high-speed network has been targeted by “malicious acts” intended to paralyze the system, just hours before the Paris Olympic Games opening ceremony.
Multiple high-speed TGV lines to the west, north, and east of Paris have been affected, causing queues at Gare Montparnasse station. Numerous trains have been canceled, and SNCF warns that disruptions could continue through the weekend as repairs are underway.
SNCF stated, “Last night, several acts of vandalism on the Atlantic, Northern, and Eastern high-speed lines were aimed at damaging our installations through deliberate fires.”
Transport Minister Patrice Vergriete condemned the “criminal acts” on social media, noting that the coordinated attacks would significantly disrupt travel plans. He expressed gratitude to SNCF staff working to restore services swiftly.
A source close to the investigation described the arson attacks as acts of “sabotage” and “evidently coordinated,” according to the AFP news agency.
The attacks, which SNCF described as a “massive attempt to paralyze the network,” involved fires set at three points on TGV lines to the west, north, and east of Paris. A fourth attack on the line to Lyon and the Mediterranean was thwarted. The disruptions have resulted in delays of up to two hours and some cancellations, with repairs expected to continue through the weekend.
While no group has claimed responsibility, the timing suggests a possible connection to the Olympic Games, a period when Paris stations were already expected to be busy with visitors arriving and Parisians departing for summer vacations.
SNCF has advised passengers to postpone their trips and avoid stations. Only the Atlantique, Nord, and Est TGV lines are affected, covering routes from Paris to Bordeaux, Lille, and Strasbourg. Tickets for disrupted journeys are exchangeable and refundable. SNCF reiterated on social media that a large number of trains have been diverted or canceled due to the attacks.
