French open-access operator Le Train has taken a significant step forward in its expansion plans, announcing the signing of two framework agreements with SNCF Réseau for future high-speed services linking Bordeaux and Rennes with Paris.
The agreements mark a key milestone in the company’s strategy to address growing demand on some of France’s busiest rail corridors. While Le Train’s core vision focuses on direct high-speed links between regional cities—such as its planned Bordeaux–Nantes and Bordeaux–Rennes routes—it is now also targeting major radial routes to the capital where capacity constraints are most acute.
On both the Bordeaux–Paris and Rennes–Paris axes, trains are frequently full, leaving passengers with limited choice at peak times. Le Train aims to ease this pressure by introducing additional services, increasing seat availability, and offering more flexible departure times, all underpinned by a distinct, high-quality onboard experience.
The framework agreements set out the commitments between Le Train and SNCF Réseau, paving the way for the next stage: submission to the Autorité de régulation des transports (ART). The regulator will assess whether the agreements comply with rules on fair and non-discriminatory access to the national rail network.
Alain Getraud, co-founder and CEO of Le Train, described the move as “an important step” in expanding both regional high-speed links and access to Paris, emphasising the role of increased rail capacity in supporting low-carbon mobility.
Founded in 2020, Le Train is France’s first independent private high-speed operator, aiming to complement existing services while broadening access to fast, sustainable rail travel.
