Freight Train Derailments in Europe Spark Investigation into Wheel Disc Breakage
Investigations are underway following a series of freight train derailments in Europe, with a recent incident near Rosenheim, Germany, bringing renewed attention to the issue of wheel disc breakage. The derailment, which occurred on December 31, 2025, involved a freight train traveling from Munich to Verona, Italy.
Derailment Details and Damage
The incident near Rosenheim involved a container transport wagon that derailed while in the tenth position of the train. According to reports from the “Münchner Merkur,” a broken wheel disc was identified as a contributing factor. The derailment caused damage to tracks and sleepers over a distance exceeding two kilometers between Rosenheim and Pfraundorf, resulting in millions of euros in damage. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, and a gas tank container on board did not leak despite damage to its outer shell.
Pattern of Wheel Disc Failures
This incident is not isolated. Experts from the Federal Agency have classified the derailment as a “dangerous event in railway operations” and initiated an early interim report due to the identified wheel disc failure. Similar incidents have been documented in European freight train traffic, including a significant derailment in the Gotthard Base Tunnel in August 2023. Investigations by the Swiss Safety Investigation Authority attributed that derailment, and many other documented cases, to wheel disc breakage.
Munich to Verona Rail Service
Despite these incidents, rail service between Munich and Verona continues to operate. Deutsche Bahn offers frequent connections between the two cities, with travel times ranging from 5 hours and 27 minutes. As of March 2, 2026, tickets are available starting from €39.99 for EC connections and €44.99 for RJ connections. Direct connections are also available, with up to five departing daily. The first train departs Munich at 07:32.
Ongoing Investigation
The investigations into the recent derailments are ongoing, with a focus on determining the root causes of the wheel disc failures and implementing preventative measures to enhance railway safety across Europe.