4 significant events that shape Hungarian Sports

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Aside from the thermal spa, cultural traditions, and other spectacular natural wonders, Hungary is also known for its success in sports. The country created a name in sports like swimming, fencing, table tennis, golf, tennis, track and field, and football which is the most famous sports in the country right now.  The country homes some of the most respected athletes in the globe.

A recent study done by Statista, a well-known research firm, has shown that revenue in the Sports and Outdoor segment is expected to reach US$41 million in 2020. The company also forecasted that it will continue to grow and reach US$65.9 million worth in 2025.

But before the country enjoys great success in the world of sports, there are several events in the past that affects and shapes the vibrant sector. Here are four of the most significant moments in Hungarian sports history.

The legalization of online sports betting

Asian countries like Vietnam are one of those countries that have strict restrictions when it comes to online sports betting or any type of gambling. Players who wanted to participate in online sports betting need to look for an international sportsbook to place their bet. It’s also the reason why keywords or search queries like cách vào sbobet không bị chặn which can be translated to “how to access sbobet when it’s blocked” became one of the most searched keywords in the country. Lucky, for players in Hungary they will never experience this hassle.

In 2013, the country started to legalize sports betting and other online gambling activities. Right now, anyone in Hungary with ages 18 and above can play in online gambling websites. The legalization resulted to further growth of the sector.

But before the amendment sports-related gambling in Hungary can be traced back to 1947 with the first official institution established under the name Toto.  The institution was built to bring excitement to the people, allow the citizen to win money, and provide the state with a budget that could help in the development of sports at that time.

Hungary Vs England in Budapest in 1954

Football is extremely popular in England for centuries. It’s the country’s national sports and also the originator of the. But in May 1954, the country experienced heavy defeat from Hungary. Hungary’s national football team which was also known as the Golden team and Mighty Mangyars thrashed the England football team 7-1. This game is one of the most memorable sports tournaments in the history of sports in Hungary.

Many Football enthusiasts are still proud of this victory. The football tournament was organized to give the football team of England a chance to revenge their past home defeat at Wembley.

Back then, the Hungary Football team was recognized as the world’s number one ranked team. They had never been defeated since the 1950s and had won the 1952 Olympics

Blood in the water 1956

Blood in the water is the title tagged water polo match between Hungary and the Soviet Union at the 1956 Melbourne Olympics. The match happened took place in December 1956, just weeks after the Soviets invaded Hungary.

The game quickly erupted in violence. There were numerous altercations and fights that happened during the game. Ervin Zador, who scored two points for Hungary, was hit by a Soviet player and climbed out of the pool with blood dripping out from his head. The game ended 4-0 in favor of the Hungarian Team.

The Hungary team played in the final against Yugoslavia and won 2-1. Zador, however, wasn’t able to participate in the game because of his injuries.

First sports association

The first sport association in Hungary was establish in the late 1800s. The first government sports sector was established in 1913. During this time, the government giving in financial support and guidelines in the sports sphere. This gave both positive and negative impacts on the sports sector. Hungary did not participate at the 1984 Olympic Games in Los Angeles because of the order from the political leaders of Hungary.