The invention relates to a system and to an intermediate element for a system (1, 1') for fixing a rail (S) for a rail vehicle to a base (U). The intermediate element (12, 12') is provided to be arranged between an end section (7, 8) of a spring element (3, 3') and the rail (S), such that the spring element (4, 4') transmits a holding-down force (N, N') to the rail (S) via the intermediate element (12, 12'). The intermediate element (12, 12') has a supporting surface (14), on which the end section (7, 8) of the spring element (3, 3') lies during use, and a standing surface (22), with which the intermediate element (12, 12') is seated on the rail (S) during use. According to the invention, the intermediate element (12, 12') is designed to be resiliently compliant in an active direction (W) directed from the supporting surface (14) toward the standing surface (22). As a result of the installation of an intermediate element (12, 12') according to the invention in a rail fixing system, the risk of shortening the service life of the spring element (3, 3') which is used to hold down the rail in the system, as a result of periodic movements that occur, is minimized.