Luas Operations and Maintenance
Project
Transdev loses the Dublin Luas Operations and Maintenance contract to Keolis and Amey after 22 years. The contract is worth an estimated €1.75 billion.
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Counterparts (5)
Buyer
Transport Infrastructure Ireland
company
Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) is responsible for the planning, design, construction, and maintenance of Ireland's national road and light rail network. They oversee major infrastructure projects across the country, focusing on improving connectivity and transportation efficiency.
National Transport Authority
company
The National Transport Authority (NTA) is responsible for planning and developing public transport infrastructure in Ireland, particularly in the Greater Dublin Area. Their focus is on delivering integrated, accessible, and sustainable transport solutions.
Keolis
company
Keolis is a leading operator of public transportation systems, providing a range of services including bus, tram, metro, and rail. They focus on delivering efficient and sustainable mobility solutions in urban and regional areas.
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Deal Analysis
The award of the Dublin Luas Operations and Maintenance contract to Keolis and Amey marks a significant shift in the Irish transport sector. After 22 years, Transdev loses its position as the operator of the Luas tram system, with the estimated €1.75 billion contract now transferring to a joint venture. This change indicates a potential strategic realignment within Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) and the National Transport Authority (NTA) regarding their operational partnerships and priorities for the Luas network. The entry of Keolis and Amey suggests a desire for potentially new approaches to service delivery and infrastructure management within the existing framework.
The deal is notable for its substantial value and the involvement of key players in the transport industry. The loss of the contract by Transdev, a major public transport operator, underscores the competitive nature of the market. The partnership between Keolis and Amey, both established infrastructure and transport service providers, signals a combined expertise being brought to bear on the Luas operations. This contract award could influence future bidding strategies and partnership formations within the Irish transport infrastructure market, potentially leading to further consolidation or diversification of service providers.
- €1.75 billion contract value
- Transdev loses the contract after 22 years
- Keolis and Amey form a joint venture to operate the Luas
- Involves key players: Transport Infrastructure Ireland and National Transport Authority
Source Intelligence
KEY DETAILS
The transfer of the contract will take place in September. Quote: Transport Sector Organiser for SIPTU John Murphy told RTÉ News that the transfer of the contract will take place in September.
There is now a two week cooling off period for unsuccessful bidders to appeal. Quote: There is now a two week cooling off period for unsuccessful bidders to appeal.
In 2024, Luas recorded 54 million passenger journeys. Quote: In 2024, Luas recorded 54 million passenger journeys, reflecting a strong and sustained recovery in use after the Covid pandemic.
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Deal Size
The contract is worth an estimated €1.75 billion.
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Location
Transdev loses Dublin Luas contract after 22 years
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Announcement
Updated / Thursday, 26 Feb 2026 15:30
PARTIES MENTIONED IN SOURCE
T
Transdev
seller
"Transdev, which operates the Dublin Luas, has lost the contract to run the service after operating it for the last 22 years."
K
Keolis
buyer
"Keolis, a large French multinational, is the preferred bidder following the tender process, Mr Murphy said, adding that there were three in the running including Transdev."
A
Amey
buyer
"Transport operator Keolis is working in conjunction with British firm Amey, a maintenance contractor company."
T
Transport Infrastructure Ireland
"Transdev Dublin Light Rail has not been selected by Transport Infrastructure Ireland and the National Transport Authority for the next Luas Operations and Maintenance contract"
N
National Transport Authority
"Transdev Dublin Light Rail has not been selected by Transport Infrastructure Ireland and the National Transport Authority for the next Luas Operations and Maintenance contract"
high quality
Enriched Feb 27, 2026
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Global Infrastructure Sherpa