France’s high-speed rail network has been hit by “malicious” arson attacks that have disrupted the transport system hours before the Paris Olympics opening ceremony, train operator SNCF said.
“This is a massive attack on a large scale to paralyse the TGV network,” SNCF told AFP.
The operator said that many routes would have to be cancelled and the situation would last “at least all weekend while repairs are conducted”.
“SNCF was the victim of several simultaneous malicious acts overnight,” the national train operator said.
The attacks will affect its Atlantic, northern and eastern lines.
“Arson attacks were started to damage our facilities,” it added.
Traffic will be “heavily disrupted” and a large number of trains will have to be cancelled, according to the operator.
The south-eastern line was not affected as “a malicious act was foiled”.
The attacks were launched as Paris prepares for the opening ceremony, with 7,500 athletes, 300,000 spectators and an audience of VIPs.
Transport Minister Patrice Vergriete said in a post on social media platform X that he “firmly condemns these criminal incidents,” and that SNCF is working to restore traffic.
