Why would outgoing PM Orbán stay in the United States for a prolonged time?

Hungary’s outgoing prime minister, Viktor Orbán, is reportedly preparing for an extended visit to the United States this summer, combining leisure, family engagements and potential political meetings.

According to sources familiar with his plans, the trip will coincide with the upcoming football World Cup, hosted largely in North America between 11 June and 19 July. Orbán is expected to attend several matches, although the exact number remains uncertain. What appears certain, however, is his presence at the final, scheduled to take place at MetLife Stadium on 19 July.

Family ties in New York

Beyond football, the visit is set to include significant family time. Orbán is likely to spend an extended period in New York with his daughter, Ráhel, her husband, István Tiborcz, and their children. The family relocated to the United States last year after a brief stay in Spain, officially citing academic pursuits. However, speculation has circulated in political circles that the move may also serve longer-term strategic purposes, potentially establishing a foothold abroad, writes Hungarian investigative journalist Szabolcs Panyi.

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Is there another reason for Orbán to stay away from Hungary?

Sources suggest that Orbán’s visit will not be limited to private and sporting activities. Meetings with figures linked to Donald Trump are reportedly on the agenda, alongside discussions with conservative and far-right business circles and think tanks in the United States.

These potential engagements highlight the continuation of ideological and political ties that have developed over the past decade between Orbán’s government and parts of the American conservative movement. Analysts note that such connections could become increasingly significant as Hungary enters a new domestic political phase with soon-to-be Prime Minister Péter Magyar and the Tisza Party.

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How long will he stay?

One of the key questions surrounding the visit is its duration. While officially framed as a temporary summer trip, some observers have raised the possibility that Orbán could remain in the United States for longer than planned, depending on political developments back home.

Former Hungarian ambassador to Washington, András Simonyi, has suggested that shifting circumstances could influence the former prime minister’s decision, although such scenarios remain speculative.

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Featured image: Orbán Viktor/Facebook