Italian authorities are investigating a series of suspected sabotage attacks on northern Italy’s railway network. They caused severe disruption as the Winter Olympic Games got under way.
Police confirmed three separate incidents involving damage to rail infrastructure in the days surrounding the opening ceremony, prompting delays of up to two-and-a-half hours on key routes linking major northern cities.
The most serious disruption occurred on the Bologna–Venice line, one of Italy’s busiest rail corridors. A fire damaged railway infrastructure, forcing the temporary suspension of services and causing widespread knock-on delays. In the same area, officers later discovered severed electrical cables and a rudimentary explosive device placed near the tracks.
Further incidents were reported along the Adriatic coast. Near Pesaro, police said a track switch had been deliberately set alight, while additional cable damage was found several hours later near Bologna. Investigators believe the attacks are connected and may have been timed to coincide with the opening of the Games.
The Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport described the incidents as acts of “serious sabotage”, drawing parallels with attacks on France’s high-speed rail network during the Paris Summer Olympics in 2024. Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Matteo Salvini said the similarities were “clear in both timing and method”.
“These actions of unprecedented seriousness do not in any way tarnish Italy’s image in the world,” Salvini said. “The Olympic Games will instead reinforce a positive and compelling image of our country.”
Bologna closed for a short time but services back to normal
Bologna’s central station, a crucial national hub linking north–south and east–west routes, was temporarily closed on parts of the high-speed network. State-owned rail operator Rete Ferroviaria Italiana said services were gradually returning to normal by Saturday afternoon, although delays persisted on some long-distance lines.
Police said no group has claimed responsibility for the attacks. A spokesperson confirmed that counter-terrorism units were assisting local investigators and that security had been stepped up across the rail network, particularly on routes serving Olympic venues.
