The railway sector is full of bright ideas, ingenious innovation and bold policy initiatives devised to enhance, grow and strengthen the rail mode today and for the future. The European Railway Award, jointly organised by the Community of European Railway and Infrastructure Companies (CER) and the Association of the European Rail Supply Industry (UNIFE), celebrates these achievements by recognising the inspired individuals behind them.

Ready for our 2027 anniversary edition?

In 2027, the European Railway Award will celebrate its 20th anniversary, bringing together prominent speakers from across the rail sector and the EU institutions.

Join us in Brussels for this special anniversary gathering, celebrating two decades of recognising the people, initiatives and achievements moving European rail forward.

Our winners in 2026

Two major contributions to Europe’s rail future were honoured at the 19th European Railway Award in Brussels. A unified call from EU countries to deliver tangible progress on high-speed rail received the 2026 Rail Trailblazer Award, while the Polish Presidency of the Council of the EU received the 2026 Rail Champion Award for advancing rail as a pillar of European competitiveness and resilience.

Read more here about the 2026 ceremony. 

Background

First presented in 2007, the European Railway Award celebrates outstanding political leadership, initiatives and achievements that advance rail in Europe. The event attracts more than 500 guests from across the continent, including high-level political representatives and transport stakeholders.

Today, the European Railway Award features two distinctions jointly bestowed by CER and UNIFE: the Rail Champion title, honouring outstanding political leadership and advocacy for rail, and the Rail Trailblazer award, recognising a bold initiative or achievement that advances the European rail system. The award is accompanied by prize money donated to a charitable organisation.