TGV Lyria partnership extension secures France-Switzerland rail links

The TGV Lyria partnership extension keeps SBB and SNCF Voyageurs aligned through 2032. This remains within the existing 2023–2027 commercial agreement, according to SBB.

Also, the agreement was signed by Vincent Ducrot, CEO of SBB. Jean Castex, Chairman and CEO of the SNCF Group, also signed it. “I am delighted to extend our long-standing collaboration with SBB, as this marks a new step in the rollout of TGV Lyria. Offering new services and new destinations has always been central to our partnership and to the SNCF Group’s strategy. It is a real asset for low-carbon high-speed mobility in Europe,” said Jean Castex, CEO of the SNCF Group.

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At the same time, the two companies are securing the future of the France–Switzerland connection. They commit to exploring development opportunities between the two countries and the rest of Europe.

TGV Lyria partnership extension through 2032

This historic agreement is 45 years old. Its extension lets SBB and SNCF Voyageurs reaffirm their intention to continue working together. This cooperation will continue in the coming years. It will focus on the rail market between France and Switzerland. It will do so through the TGV Lyria service.

In addition, long-distance travel between the two countries is growing. The companies also point to the commercial success of TGV Lyria. Separately, they say they want to continue and strengthen their long-term cooperation. They also say they will actively work on international passenger transport services.

Switzerland–France high-speed rail routes

Separately, TGV Lyria is the main rail service between France and Switzerland. For example, according to TGV Lyria, the service runs on three lines:

• Paris – Geneva

• Paris – Lausanne

• Paris – Basel – Zurich

Also, a fourth daily high-speed train operates in the summer season. It runs between Lausanne, via Geneva, and Marseille. Meanwhile, the service is new this year. It runs from April through November. It runs from Thursday through Monday. It runs daily in July and August.

Meanwhile, TGV Lyria carried 5.7 million passengers in 2025. It is consolidating its position as the leading rail service between Switzerland and France. In addition, it connects stations located directly in city centers. It also offers up to 18,000 seats. This is through 17 daily round-trip services between Switzerland and France, as TGV Lyria notes.

TGV Lyria expansion into Europe

Still, the two railway companies will explore European connections from Switzerland. This will include analyzing expansions. It will also include new direct long-distance rail services from Switzerland to France and beyond.

“By expanding our partnership, we are ensuring Switzerland has a strong, reliable, and sustainable long-term connection to France and, consequently, to the main European hubs. Strong demand proves this: international rail connections are of central importance to the economy, tourism, and the population. Together with SNCF Voyageurs, we aim to further develop this potential,” said Vincent Ducrot, CEO of SBB.

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