Judit Polgar tapped as Hungary’s next president in political chess move

Hungary’s prime minister, Péter Magyar, will ask **Judit Polgár** to become the country’s next president just days after parliament ended the term of Tamás Sulyok, the former president installed under Viktor Orbán.

On 18 July 2026, Magyar announced plans to nominate Polgár for the largely ceremonial role, citing her decades of global recognition as the greatest female chess player ever. He will meet her on 21 July to finalise the proposal.

What happened?

Magyar’s centre-right Tisza party pushed through a constitutional amendment last week to remove Sulyok, who had five days to sign off. After he complied, parliament immediately terminated his term. The move drew criticism from rights groups, who called it a repeat of Orbán-era tactics.

Polgár, born in Budapest, turns 50 on 23 July 2026. She held the top women’s ranking for 25 years before retiring in 2014. At 15, she became the youngest grandmaster in history, breaking Bobby Fischer’s 1958 record.

Why it matters for Judit Polgar

Her appointment would mark a symbolic break from Orbán’s 16-year rule. Magyar argues Polgár’s reputation for talent and perseverance can unite a divided nation. A Netflix documentary, *Queen of Chess*, released in 2026, revived public interest in her career.

Polgár’s career includes wins over multiple world champions, including Garry Kasparov in 2002. Her rise in the male-dominated game made her a global icon and a frequent comparison point for young prodigies.

What comes next?

The nomination requires a parliamentary vote, expected to pass easily given Tisza’s two-thirds majority. If confirmed, Polgár would serve until a new constitution is adopted, with a maximum term of five years.

Magyar has moved swiftly since April’s landslide win to dismantle Orbán-era institutions, including suspending pro-Orbán media and abolishing a surveillance office. Polgár’s potential role fits his push to loosen Orbán’s lingering influence.

Reactions and context

Sixteen prominent Hungarians, including Rubik’s Cube inventor Ernő Rubik, signed an open letter backing Polgár. Rights groups warn the rushed constitutional changes echo Orbán-era power grabs.

Polgár’s name has long stood for excellence beyond chess. Her possible presidency would extend that legacy into national leadership.