Overview

• Multiple outlets citing government and board circles report DB Regio chief Evelyn Palla as the chosen successor to Richard Lutz, which would make her the company’s first woman at the top if confirmed.
• Transport Minister Patrick Schnieder will present a federal rail strategy on Monday, and Palla is expected to be formally proposed then; the supervisory board convenes Tuesday to decide.
• The move comes as performance remains weak, with long‑distance punctuality at about 60% in August and extensive works on worn infrastructure weighing on operations.
• Finances are strained despite pockets of improvement, as the group posted a €760 million loss in H1 2025 while DB Regio under Palla recorded a €103 million operating profit.
• Stakeholders welcome an internal choice but stress that lasting gains depend on stable funding, tighter governance and realistic renovation timelines aligned with Schnieder’s goals of a punctual, safe and clean railway.