Wedoany.com Report on Mar 3rd, Leo Express recently launched operations on the Warsaw-Krakow railway corridor, marking the rail operator's first entry into the Polish capital and advancing the international expansion strategy of its major shareholder, Renfe, in Central Europe.
The new service covers Poland's busiest rail route, connecting Warsaw and Krakow. It offers two round trips daily, stopping at approximately 20 stations, and enhances cross-border connectivity with the Czech Republic. This move coincides with increased frequency on the Prague-Krakow line, improving north-south transport mobility in Central Europe.
Leo Express operates the service using Stadler FLIRT EMUs, providing a sustainable and high-quality travel option for international journeys between Warsaw and Prague. Due to Polish market demand exceeding expectations, the company plans to increase the Warsaw-Krakow service to four daily trains in each direction starting June 25, while optimizing the Prague connection.
Renfe acquired a 50% stake in Leo Express in December 2021 as part of its broader internationalization strategy to expand into European commercial and public service markets. Since the partnership, Leo Express has achieved significant financial and operational growth. Its 2024 revenue reached €40 million, double the previous year's figure, and it transported over 3.5 million passengers. Revenue remained stable in 2025, with passenger numbers exceeding 4.5 million. The company expects to surpass 6 million passengers this year, representing growth of over 19% across its network in the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Poland.
Furthermore, Renfe has supported Leo Express's entry into the public service obligation market. In 2023, Leo Express secured a nine-year contract from the Slovak government to operate regional services between Bratislava and Komárno. In July 2025, Renfe leased Talgo VI trains to Leo Express, expected to be launched under the "Leo Express Powered by Renfe" brand in early 2026, further solidifying their cooperation in the Central European rail market.
