The invention relates to a connecting element for connecting two aligned C-shaped profile rails (12). The connecting in element (10) is in the form of a sheet metal profile the cross-section of which, adapted to the profile rails (12) to be connected, is such that said sheet-metal profile can be slid into said profile rails (12) from the fronts thereof in a captive manner. A handling tab (14) that is accessible after the connecting element has been slid into a profile rail (12) is moulded onto or mounted on said connecting element.