- DB and Eurostar signed a cooperation agreement for a future direct rail link
- The planned connection would include major German cities such as Cologne and Frankfurt
- Eurostar provides Channel Tunnel expertise; DB brings national network capability
- Launch targeted for early 2030s, pending technical and legal approvals
- Political backing from both governments, including a dedicated task force
Germany and the United Kingdom took a significant, confident step toward finally connecting their major cities by high-speed rail. Deutsche Bahn and Eurostar have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to explore direct long-distance services between London, Cologne, Frankfurt, and other major German hubs. If realized, travellers would be able to board in one city and glide straight to the other without airport queues or transfers.
This planned service would use Eurostar’s upcoming double-deck Celestia trains — the next generation of cross-Channel rail travel — while DB contributes its extensive infrastructure access across Germany. Both companies describe the project as ambitious but achievable, provided that the necessary technical, operational, and legal frameworks are completed in time. The goal is to launch in the early 2030s.
Strong Voices, Strong Support
DB board member Michael Peterson explained the larger vision: a Europe where rail networks tighten the continent’s connections. He noted that such cross-border projects are incredibly complex and require strong partnerships to succeed, but the potential for a smooth London–Germany route is enormous.
Eurostar CEO Gwendoline Cazenave echoed the enthusiasm. She highlighted sustainability, ease of travel, and the opportunity to make cross-Channel rail the preferred option for millions. Combining Eurostar’s tunnel expertise with DB’s national reach would create a new standard of comfort and convenience.
The political support is unusually strong. German Transport Minister Patrick Schnieder called it a milestone for European rail, confirming that a dedicated task force is already working on legal, infrastructural, and policy frameworks. In the UK, Transport Minister Heidi Alexander said the partnership could reshape European travel for generations, strengthening trade, jobs, and sustainable mobility.
What the Partnership Aims to Build
- A direct long-distance rail route linking Germany and the UK — something no single operator can easily deliver alone.
- A city-center to city-center connection, offering a greener alternative to flying.
- Joint development of schedules, terminal facilities, and international border procedures needed for smooth cross-Channel movement.
- A coordinated political framework, supported by both governments, to solve challenges around immigration checks, infrastructure, and bilateral agreements.
The initiative aligns with the friendship and cooperation treaty signed by the German Chancellor and the British Prime Minister on 17 July, which includes creating a joint task force to address political barriers to a direct rail connection.
The track is long, the work is complex — but for the first time in years, the journey between Germany and London feels closer than ever.
