Spain: Ouigo train drivers' strikes on six days from 30 October to 8 December 2026 (SEMAF)

The train drivers' union SEMAF has called the drivers of Ouigo, the French-owned low-cost high-speed operator in Spain, to strike on six days around the autumn holiday weekends:

• Friday 30 October and Monday 2 November 2026 (All Saints weekend): 24-hour strikes
• Friday 6 and Monday 9 November (Almudena weekend in Madrid): partial strikes, 06:00–12:00 and 18:00–23:59
• Friday 4 and Tuesday 8 December (Constitution weekend): partial strikes, 06:00–12:00 and 18:00–23:59

What to expect: Ouigo's high-speed services between Madrid and Barcelona, Valencia, Alicante, Andalusia and the other cities it serves may be cancelled on these days, especially on the two 24-hour dates. Spain's transport ministry sets minimum services before each strike; Ouigo says it will inform passengers through its usual channels. Renfe and Iryo trains are not affected by this call.

Why: SEMAF says Ouigo is not complying with its 2024 company agreement: shifts that exceed the normal working day, stand-by duties and extra hours without compensation, rest periods, difficulties taking holidays, and preparation time not counted as work. Ouigo says it complies with the agreement, puts the dispute down to differences of interpretation, and is willing to keep negotiating.