SNCB CEO Sophie Dutordoir Denies Resignation Amidst High-Stakes Train Contract Controversy
Brussels, Belgium – July 23, 2025 – Whispers of a potential resignation by SNCB CEO sophie dutordoir have been firmly denied, as the Belgian national railway company navigates a complex and high-stakes train procurement contract. the controversy centers on the preferential awarding of a massive deal, perhaps worth up to €3.4 billion,to Spanish firm CAF,a decision that has ignited strong reactions from competitors and raised concerns about openness and job security.
Sources had suggested that Dutordoir had tendered her resignation during a previous board meeting, onyl to retract it, in a move reportedly linked to the decision favoring CAF. Tho,Dutordoir herself has vehemently refuted these claims. “This was not mentioned!” she stated, emphasizing her commitment to “rigorously respect the law on public procurement.”
The contract, a landmark deal for the SNCB, involves an initial order of 180 trains, valued at a minimum of €1.7 billion, with options to expand to 600 trains over 12 years.The stakes are undeniably high, with the future of approximately 600 jobs at alstom’s Bruges site hanging in the balance.
Alstom, a major player in the rail industry, had previously expressed its strong disapproval of the initial decision to favor CAF. Bernard Belvaux, Managing Director for Belgium and Luxembourg at Alstom, had described the choice as “shocking,” warning of severe repercussions for the Bruges facility if Alstom were to be dismissed from the bidding process. Trade unionists echoed these concerns, labeling the situation a “grace” that could signal “the end of the trip for at least 600 workers.”
The procurement process has been fraught with challenges. In March, the SNCB board had initially and unanimously selected CAF as the preferred bidder. Though, this decision was later suspended by the Council of state, following an appeal by Alstom citing a lack of transparency in the allocation procedure.A ruling was expected on June 26, but was postponed to July 23.
Adding another layer of complexity, European law generally prohibits the promotion of “local” companies in such contracts, as it can distort competitive tendering.
In a statement released today, the SNCB confirmed its decision to reconfirm CAF as the preferential tenderer, taking into account the Council of State’s judgment. the company also highlighted that all bidders, including Alstom and CAF, had committed to utilizing local suppliers in their proposals. “The Council appreciates it and invites the preferential tenderer to concretize this track,” the public enterprise stated, indicating a desire to see these local commitments materialized.
Furthermore, the Board of directors has instructed management to ensure that CAF’s activities adhere to international law and human rights as discussions progress towards a final attribution.
Alstom, while disappointed, is taking time to assess the implications of the decision. “We are disappointed by this decision. We will take the time to assess the impact on Alstom as well as our options,” said Mattias Baertsoen, Alstom’s director of communication in Belgium.
Amidst the ongoing deliberations, there is a glimmer of hope for Alstom to potentially secure a portion of the contract through subcontracting work, which could help CAF meet its ambitious objectives. However, this remains unconfirmed at this stage.
Stay tuned to World Today News for ongoing coverage of this developing story.
Keywords: SNCB