Irish Olympics fans warned over Paris travel chaos after ‘massive attack’ on rail network

A ‘massive attack’ against France’s high-speed TGV rail network has taken place ahead of the Paris Olympics ceremony.

The SNFC, National Company of the French Railways, confirmed that 800,000 passengers were affected after several “criminal acts” were committed on Thursday night.

In a statement, SNFC stated that unidentified groups started fires overnight to “damage” and sabotage train lines outside of Paris.

Because of the time frame of these attacks, which occurred between 1am and 5.30am and targeted electrical boxes, it is understood these attacks were premeditated.

The French Minister of Transport, Patrice Vergriete said: “Today, all elements point out to a voluntary act (…), the timeframe is particularly suspect”.

As a result, several trains have been cancelled, including between Paris and London.

All travels from Montparnasse train station are cancelled prior to 1pm this Friday. The CEO of SNCF Voyageurs, Christine Fanichet, reassured commuters that all tickets will be reimbursed.

It is understood delays may occur all over the weekend as a result of the “attack”.