This push follows years of cross-border competition with SNCF on routes including Paris–Lyon, Marseille, and Milan, with profitability still elusive.

The expansion targets Europe-wide markets with an initial focus on France, Britain, and other key routes.

FS and its Trenitalia France unit will accelerate growth through a $1 billion joint venture with US private equity firm Certares to expand presence in France, the United Kingdom, and cross-border routes.

Trenitalia France aims to expand its high-speed fleet to at least 19 trains and establish a new maintenance hub near Paris, backed by a €1 billion investment on lines in France and the UK.

The initiative signals FS’s intent to strengthen its international rail network and capture a larger share of Europe’s growing high-speed travel market.

The unit plans to compete with Eurostar on the Paris–London route by 2029 and is evaluating the Paris–Brussels route in line with FS’s broader strategic plan.

In the coming year, Trenitalia France will consolidate and retain customers in France, improve occupancy on red TGV services, and focus on loyalty and consolidation through 2026.

The deal includes distribution enhancements through Certares portfolio companies such as CWT, Ovation, Egencia, Havas Voyages, and Selectour to boost bookings and partnerships.

Trenitalia France currently operates high-speed services between Paris, Lyon, Marseille, and Milan, and is France’s second-largest rail operator.

The partnership with Certares supports plans to launch Paris–London high-speed services by 2029 and add cross-border connections.