20.07.2026 20:30
After the critical constitutional amendment that removed President Tamás Sulyok from office in Hungary, a historic proposal came that could shift the country's political balances. Prime Minister Péter Magyar announced that he would offer the vacant presidency to legendary chess champion Judit Polgár. Magyar stated that the 49-year-old grandmaster is the most suitable person to end polarization in the country and ensure national unity.
Hungarian Prime Minister Péter Magyar announced that he will offer the position of the country's presidency to Judit Polgár, widely regarded as the most successful female athlete in chess history. Following the constitutional amendment approved by parliament, this surprise move sees Magyar state that the 49-year-old legendary grandmaster is the most suitable figure to represent the unity of the nation.
"A LEADER EVERY HUNGARIAN CAN BE PROUD OF"
In a statement made via his social media account, Prime Minister Magyar announced that he will meet with Polgár on Monday to convey the official candidacy offer. Emphasizing Hungary's need for unity and peace, Magyar used the following words:
"The presidency is not a job or a workplace, but the highest office of service. Its duty is to serve every Hungarian and represent everyone. Ms. Polgár's fame does not come from political connections; it comes from her extraordinary talent, diligence, and honesty. Our country needs a president every Hungarian can be proud of."
POLITICAL CHANGE AND CONSTITUTIONAL MOVE
This surprise offer came immediately after current President Tamás Sulyok signed the constitutional amendment formally ending his term. The regulation, approved by the parliament where Péter Magyar's Tisza Party holds a majority, is seen as part of political steps aimed at reducing the influence of the former administration in the bureaucracy.
LEGENDARY CAREER IN CHESS HISTORY
Judit Polgár, who together with her sisters Zsuzsa and Zsófia led Hungary to victory at the 1988 Chess Olympiad, ending the dominance of the Soviet Union, is regarded as the best female chess player of all time. Polgár still holds the title of the only female athlete to surpass the 2700 ELO rating threshold, considered the "Super Grandmaster" level in the chess world.