German rail operator Deutsche Bahn has acknowledged shortcomings in service following major delays and angry complaints from football fans in Germany during the ongoing UEFA European Championship.
Extensive reports from foreign media about train breakdowns and overcrowded platforms in Germany had caused a stir, as well as acute embarrassment for a country that once prided itself on precision, punctuality and high-quality infrastructure.
"We understand the fans' displeasure and criticism," Michael Peterson, who oversees long-distance passenger rail service for Deutsche Bahn, told the Bild newspaper.
Peterson admitted that the railway was not currently offering the quality experience that riders deserve.
The large number of delays have caused annoyance for football fans who often spent considerable sums on travel and match tickets only to arrive late.
"At the same time, we are currently doing everything we can to get travellers to their destinations reliably," Peterson told the newspaper.
Deutsche Bahn has been offering special discounted train tickets tied to the tournament to allow spectators to travel to venues across the country.
Since the start of the Euros 2024, more than 5 million long-distance passengers have been on the rails.
"We are delighted about that. And if things don't go as planned, we say to the fans: thank you for your patience and care," Peterson said.
Ahead of the tournament, state-owned Deutsche Bahn had announced that it would offer 10,000 additional seats per day on long-distance trains.
Upcoming construction work had also been brought forward in order to prevent delays and disruptions on important routes during the tournament.