Authorities in Italy are investigating what they believe were coordinated sabotage attacks on the country’s rail system just as the Winter Olympic Games were getting underway, causing major travel chaos for thousands of passengers.
Police say three separate incidents targeted rail infrastructure in northern Italy, triggering delays of up to two and a half hours for travelers moving through the region. The timing raised immediate alarm, as the disruptions happened while large crowds were gathering for the opening of the Games.
Investigators are now examining damage at multiple locations across the rail network. In one nearby area, officers also discovered a crude explosive device placed alongside the tracks, significantly escalating concerns about safety and intent.
The city of Bologna was hit particularly hard. The city is a critical hub in Italy’s rail system, linking routes that run north to south and east to west across the country. As a result of the attacks, the state-run high-speed rail service through Bologna was temporarily shut down.
Italy’s Ministry of Transport described the incidents as “serious sabotage,” drawing comparisons to attacks that disrupted France’s high-speed rail network during the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics.
Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Matteo Salvini addressed the situation publicly, saying the attacks were extremely serious but would not damage Italy’s international image.
“These actions of unprecedented seriousness do not in any way tarnish Italy’s image in the world,” Salvini said, adding that the Winter Games would continue to showcase the country in a positive light. He also noted similarities in both timing and method to the rail sabotage seen in France last year.
A police spokesperson confirmed that the investigation is ongoing and that no individual or group has claimed responsibility so far.
By Saturday afternoon, rail services through Bologna’s high-speed station were gradually returning to normal following the temporary shutdown.
The Winter Olympics opening ceremony took place Friday evening across multiple venues, including Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo in northeastern Italy. Both cities are accessible by train from Venice, making the rail system especially critical as athletes, officials, and spectators move between host locations.
Authorities continue to investigate whether the attacks were directly intended to disrupt the Games as security remains heightened across Italy’s transportation network.
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