Overview

• Transport Minister Patrick Schnieder confirmed Richard Lutz’s early exit and is conducting an open search to name a successor, saying the choice will be based solely on qualifications.
• Schnieder plans to present a new rail strategy on 22 September that sets the owner’s framework for making Deutsche Bahn more reliable, punctual, clean and financially sound.
• He said there are sufficient candidates for the top job and declined to tie improvements to a specific year, arguing punctuality should improve step by step as renovations finish.
• For the Deutschlandticket, the federal government plans to contribute €1.5 billion next year with another €1.5 billion expected from the states, with work under way on how to cover any additional costs and only limited price increases possible before 2029.
• Beyond rail, the ministry highlighted infrastructure priorities including rehabilitation of at least 4,000 motorway bridges with simplified, bundled tenders from 2026, and greater use of inland waterways that face low‑water challenges and recent lock damages.