Overview
- Berlin confirmed no 2025 disbursement for long‑distance track access support and said work is underway on a new funding rule for 2026.
- Deutsche Bahn faces an estimated €100 million budget gap and Flixtrain about €5 million after planning services on the expectation of the aid.
- VDV and Mofair warn of reduced long‑distance services following a 17.7% jump in track charges from 2024 to 2025.
- The decision follows Bundesrechnungshof findings and a Bundestag audit committee demand to prove effectiveness, with a ministry spokesperson ruling out a reversal.
- Political figures and the EVG union criticized the move’s timing, while DB pursues short‑term compensation talks and says 2026 long‑distance fares will remain stable.