Ouigo has cancelled all of its train services scheduled for Friday 30th October and Monday 2nd November, affecting around 20,000 passengers across Spain. The decision follows a last-minute judicial ruling that invalidated the minimum service levels previously set by the Ministry of Transport and Sustainable Mobility.

The National Court provisionally suspended the ministry’s decree, which had mandated an average of 72% minimum services during the strike action called by train drivers’ union SEMAF. Without this operational framework, Ouigo stated it could not guarantee which trains would run and chose to cancel all 40 routes nationwide to prevent confusion and further disruption.

Barcelona-Sants station has been among the hardest hit, with all Ouigo services completely paralysed. The suspension also affects major routes including Alicante–Madrid and services from Elche, disrupting travel plans during the All Saints’ holiday period.

Despite initial plans to operate under the government’s minimum service order, the company said it received notification of the court’s decision on Wednesday 28th October, leaving it unable to confirm running services in advance.

Refunds, Changes and Compensation

Passengers with tickets for the affected dates are being notified by email and can choose to change their journey free of charge or request a full refund. In addition, Ouigo is offering direct compensation of up to 200% of the original ticket value, depending on the terms applicable to each booking.

We respect our employees’ right to strike, but the judicial suspension removed the necessary framework to operate safely and predictably.

The company emphasized that services on Saturday 31st October and Sunday 1st November remain scheduled to run as normal, providing a partial exception during the holiday weekend.

Industrial Action and Ongoing Talks

The strike was called on 7th October by SEMAF over a dispute concerning the application of the collective bargaining agreement. Ouigo says it has maintained ongoing and constructive dialogue with union representatives in an effort to resolve the conflict.

The rail operator also cited sensitivity around the network following the recent incident in Urda, Toledo, as a factor in its decision to suspend all services during the strike period.

What it means for you

  • When: Friday 30th October and Monday 2nd November.
  • Where: Barcelona-Sants station and across the entire Ouigo network in Spain.
  • Who is affected: Approximately 20,000 users nationwide, including those travelling through Barcelona-Sants.
  • What to do: Contact Ouigo via email for a free ticket change, full refund, or compensation of up to 200% of the ticket price.

Sources: CatalunyaPress, todoalicante.es, Torrevieja Diario newsroom.