Lisbon–Madrid IC31 works set to begin this year

EuroWeeklyNews reports that construction is due to get under way this year, with the goal of strengthening links between the two Iberian capitals and supporting economic cohesion.

Planned Lisbon–Madrid road improvements

The proposal includes completing the IC31 connection so that the Portuguese motorway network ties into Spain’s system. Under the plan, IC31 would link through to the A23 and to Spain’s EX-A1. Once these works are in place, journey times are expected to fall.

Timeline set out in the 2026 State Budget

These measures are outlined in the 2026 State Budget, where the Government set out adjustments intended to bring the start date forward as much as possible. That acceleration could also move completion earlier than the previously stated 2031 deadline.

Road works alongside Lisbon–Madrid railway connectivity

This push to improve road links between Lisbon and Madrid comes as the Iberian countries are also seeking to boost rail connectivity between the two cities. With the railway still facing longer-term delivery dates, the upgraded motorway connection may be finished sooner.