Virgin challenges Eurostar’s London-Brussels monopoly with Eurotunnel route approval

British rail operator Virgin Trains has received pre-approval to run international train services through the Channel Tunnel, potentially breaking the current monopoly held by Eurostar. Eurostar, a French-controlled international rail operator, is the only company providing direct passenger services from England to cities such as Amsterdam, Brussels and Paris through the tunnel. But from 2030, this could change. “This is an important next step in bringing competition and growth to the market for international rail services,” said Martin Jones, the British Office of Rail and Road deputy director of access and international, in an official press release. Virgin will be allowed to operate trains alongside Eurostar from 2030 to 2040, with up to 20 return journeys per day. The trains will depart from London St Pancras International and travel through the undersea rail link connecting the UK with northern France. Virgin owner Richard Branson, writing in October 2025 when Virgin won approval from the British regulator to use the Temple Mills International rail depot in East London, wrote: “It’s time to end this 30-year monopoly and bring some Virgin magic to the cross-Channel route … Just as we’ve challenged incumbents in the air, on the seas, and just as we’ve led the UK rail market before – we’re ready to do it all over again.” The decision gives the project the green light on the British side, but the rail operator still needs to secure the necessary arrangements with its European partners, the British rail regulator clarified. “Virgin Trains must also procure rolling stock, secure access to other rail networks, and obtain safety approvals from ORR and the relevant authorities in the EU,” the press release said. In October, Branson said Virgin was working with Alstom and planned to order 12 Avelia Stream trains. This article has been updated.