Eurostar will maintain its dominance in the Channel Tunnel for at least the next four years, as rival services experience delays to launching due to Brexit . Getlink, the Paris-based company which manages the tunnel's infrastructure, has seen interest from multiple other companies hoping to start a rail service, but none of them are in a position to launch anything soon, it has been reported. Richard Branson's Virgin Group, the Spanish rail firm Evolyn, and new Dutch operator Heuro are all believed to be interested in creating a high-speed challenger service, according to The Sunday Times .
However, despite initial expectations of Evolyn launching services early next year, corporate filings from Eurostar say this is “not feasible,” with 2028 considered to be the earliest possible timing of market entry. Sources told the publication that delays were down to greater regulatory burdens on the Channel Tunnel since Brexit. Prior to Brexit, operations were run by a single regulator known as the French-UK Intergovernmental Commission (IGC).
However, Brexit has meant that the system will be split. French watchdog EPSF is reportedly ready for the arrangement but the UK side, handled by the Office of Rail and Road , is not thought to be ready until next year. In addition, in order to accommodate more trains and passengers, London St Pancras would have to undergo construction works, which could take a considerable amount of time.
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