King Felipe of Spain was quietly corrected by his wife, Queen Letizia, as he delivered a moving speech outside the Toledo University Hospital on Thursday. The royal couple visited the facility to support survivors of the Toledo rail crash and the healthcare workers treating them.
At least 69 people were killed and over 100 others injured when a high-speed train rear-ended a stationary train near Urda in the Toledo province of Spain on Wednesday. The King was greeted by the President of Castilla-La Mancha, Emiliano García-Page, upon his arrival.
Queen Letizia, accompanying the monarch, appeared somber in a black dress. As the royals emerged from the facility, both appeared emotional, wiping away tears while the King read a speech from his phone.
During the address, the monarch made a factual error, which his wife quietly corrected. He referred to the "tragedy in Adamuz" rather than Urda, where Wednesday's tragedy occurred.
He later acknowledged his mistake, noting that "the Queen was quite right" after she pointed out the error. It is worth mentioning that the Adamuz train disaster took place on 18 January 2026, when an Iryo high-speed train derailed in Adamuz (Córdoba, Spain), and an oncoming Renfe Alvia train crashed into the wreckage, killing 46 people and injuring 292 others.
The incident highlights the immense pressure and emotional toll on the royal family as they navigate the aftermath of such a devastating national tragedy. The King and Queen have been praised for their hands-on approach in comforting the victims.
Local authorities in Toledo have launched a full-scale investigation into the signaling failure that led to the collision. The rail operator has suspended all services on the affected line until further notice.
The healthcare workers at Toledo University Hospital were lauded by the King for their tireless efforts in saving lives. Many of the injured remain in critical condition, requiring ongoing surgical intervention.
As the nation mourns, the royal couple continues to visit various support centers. Their presence serves as a symbol of unity for the Spanish people during this difficult time of recovery and grief.