The Research & Innovation Coordination Group (RICG) held its plenary session on 14 January 2026, in an online format, bringing together experts and stakeholders to review progress and align on strategic priorities for European railway research and innovation.
During the session, participants discussed the RICG strategic document “Future Capabilities of the European Railway System”, approved by the 41st Regional Assembly for Europe in December 2025.
This document provides a roadmap for strengthening the European railway system’s capabilities in response to technological, societal and environmental trends, and will soon be published by the UIC Communications Unit. The plenary also covered the ERRAC strategic document “Future Tracks Vision and Goals for Rail Transport Research & Innovation in a Changing Europe”, highlighting the collaboration between RICG and ERRAC and outlining long-term objectives for railway research and innovation.
The meeting included updates on the preparation of contributions to the EU Horizon Europe 2028-2034 Framework Programme and related future partnerships, as well as the current funding opportunities available under Horizon Europe.
Participants were also briefed on the ongoing preparations for Transport Research Arena (TRA) 2026, ensuring that the European railway sector is well-represented at this major research event.
The revitalised International Railway Research Board (IRRB) and the Regional Competence Hubs for Innovation were also discussed, with RICG closely coordinating with RCH Europe to pursue common goals. Dr Johan Jonsson (TRV), Chair of RICG WG2 ‘Coordination and Advocacy’ and ERRAC WG2 Chair, was highlighted as the RICG representative in this work.
Finally, the 2026 RICG calendar was presented, including the process for electing the new RICG Chair and deputies for the 2026-2028 term.
Through these activities, RICG continues to promote collaboration, foster innovation and ensure that the European railway system remains at the forefront of sustainable and advanced transport solutions.
For more information, and to access the documents presented during the session, please refer to the ERRAC “Future Tracks” document, EU-Rail GB proposed Flagship Initiatives, EU-Rail Flagship Projects – Information Sessions Presentations and the ER-Rail High-Level Paper on future rail.
The next RICG Plenary meeting will be held on 24 June 2026 from 9am to 12pm, online.
