A significant shift in the Italian high-speed rail market is on the horizon as SNCF prepares to launch services in Italy, becoming a third operator alongside Trenitalia and Italo. The move follows a decision by the Italian Competition Authority (AGCM) to accept commitments from infrastructure manager Rete Ferroviaria Italiana (RFI) designed to make access to the country’s high-speed network fairer for new entrants.
The investigation, launched in 2025, examined whether existing capacity allocation rules could hinder competition. As part of the resolution, RFI has agreed to allocate a guaranteed package of 18 train paths to SNCF’s Italian subsidiary. These will be on key high-speed corridors, particularly linking Torino, Milano, Roma and Venezia. Importantly, the slots will be secured for ten years, giving the new operator the certainty needed to invest in services.
SNCF intends to introduce 15 new double-decker TGV M high-speed trains, offering increased passenger capacity and modern onboard comfort. The proposed timetable includes up to 13 daily return services: nine between Torino and Napoli, and four between Torino and Venezia. If realised, the service could carry more than 10 million passengers per year.
Research conducted with Bocconi University suggests the project could generate more than €480 million annually in economic benefits, including increased tax revenue, GDP growth and the creation of over 4,000 jobs.
Before services can begin, however, SNCF must still secure access to maintenance facilities in Italy, obtain approval for its trains, and acquire additional capacity for future expansion. If these hurdles are cleared, the new high-speed services could start in September 2027.
