Sport

Szombathely becomes Hungarian men’s basketball champion for the fifth time

Szombathely becomes Hungarian men's basketball champion for the fifth time

Falco-Vulcano Energia KC Szombathely won their fifth championship gold medal as they defeated Arconic-Alba Fehérvár by 16 points in the fifth game of the Men’s Basketball NB I final on Sunday, winning the match 3-2 on aggregate.

The defending basketball champion overcame an 18-point deficit to beat Fehérvár 82-70 in the opening game of the final last Wednesday, and three days later came from 22 points down to win 81-80 at home. The third game on Tuesday was another home win for Szombathely, 84-78, and the fourth game followed a similar scenario, with Alba winning 72-69.

In the final game, the Arena Savaria was again packed and the teams played to the limit. In this game, the home side held their advantage fiercely, did not allow their rivals any easy baskets and deservedly won.

April’s cup winners Falco celebrated their fourth consecutive win – they were not crowned champion in 2020 due to Covid-19 – and their fifth consecutive NB I triumph after 2008, 2019, 2021 and 2022.

The team from Vasi and Fejér County were playing in their third championship final, Alba having previously come out on top in 1998/99 and 2016/17.

Also another interesting question to ponder, can Hungary produce elite basketball players?

Hungarian national soccer squad re-formed

Hungarian national soccer squar

Hungary head coach Marco Rossi has called up 24 players for the men’s national team’s two European qualifiers in June. Despite the fact that due to injury, regulars such as Attila Fiola, Péter Gulácsi, Zsolt Nagy, András Schäfer and András Németh will not be available, only one uncapped player has been selected.

The newcomer to the squad this time is 22-year-old Kecskemét defender Gábor Szalai, who has played 28 of his club’s 32 league matches this season and impressed Rossi enough to merit an international call-up for this double-header away to Montenegro then at home to Lithuania. Furthermore, goalkeeper Péter Szappanos, who was not selected for the squad last time, will return and similarly Callum Styles reappears having now recovered from injury.

Hungary’s squad:
Goalkeepers: Demjén Patrik (Zalaegerszegi TE) Dénes Dibusz (Ferencvárosi TC) Péter Szappanos (Budapest Honvéd)

Defenders: Botond Balogh (Parma), Endre Botka (Ferencváros), Ádám Lang (Omonia Nicosia), Willi Orbán (RB Leipzig), Attila Szalai (Fenerbahçe), Gábor Szalai (Kecskemét).

Midfielders: Péter Baráth (Ferencváros), Bendegúz Bolla (Grasshoppers), János Ferenczi (DVSC), Milos Kerkez (AZ Alkmaar), László Kleinheisler (Panathinaikos), Ádám Nagy (Pisa), Loic Nego (MOL Fehérvár), Callum Styles (Millwall).

Forwards: Ádám Martin (Ulsan Hyundai), Kevin Csoboth (Újpest), Dániel Gazdag (Philadelphia Union), Zsolt Kalmár (DAC), Roland Sallai (Freiburg), Dominik Szoboszlai (RB Leipzig), Barnabás Varga (Paks).

Unfortunately, several of our players have not recovered from injuries, but the quality and unity of the team is still high,” Rossi commented. “We’ve selected only one newcomer, Gábor Szalai, because he is a young player in good condition and, moreover, a left-footed player, which is important in our defence. He can easily be Attila Szalai’s backup and has played well all season. He has good physical qualities, so we want to see him in the squad to see how he fits into the team and our style of play on the pitch“.

Some of the squad will start training at MLSZ’s training centre in Telki on 5th June, with the first full training session due to begin a week later at the same location. Marco Rossi’s team will face Montenegro in Podgorica on 17th June before returning to Budapest to host Lithuania in the Puskás Aréna three days later. Ticket purchase information relating to these two matches has been summarised in the Hungarian-language article HERE.  The support of the fans will be essential again, because two very difficult and important matches await Hungary’s men’ national team.

We all know that there’s a lot at stake in every match during the qualifiers,” Rossi continued. “There’s no easy match in the campaign and the match against Montenegro is the second-most difficult based on form on paper. We know Montenegro’s game very well, we know their style and we know that it’s a very difficult task to get three points in Podgorica, which will of course be our goal on 17th June. The match against Lithuania may seem routine, but it won’t be, something which is clearly shown by the fact that they only lost 2-0 to Serbia and caused them a lot of trouble. It will be key to concentrate 100 percent throughout the match, because we know from the past that if we lose focus for even a moment, anyone can stand a chance against us. If our attitude and concentration are not at their optimum, then just as we’re able to beat stronger teams (who fall into that trap), teams weaker than us would also be able to do the same to us“.

Hungary among the best European countries for outdoor workouts

Outdoor workouts are predicted to be the biggest trend this year, improving not only fitness energy but also wellbeing benefits such as stress reduction and mood boosting. With the number of outdoor public fitness parks in Hungary’s capital, Budapest, it is a great place to workout in the great outdoors.

With this in mind, the experts at Live Rugby Tickets were keen to discover which European countries are the best for an outdoor workout this Summer. To do this, they created a points-based index system evaluating several factors in 28 European countries, including average temperature, wind speed, pollen count, humidity level and sunshine hours. Each country was then ranked out of 100 for its suitability for an outdoor workout this summer. 

Key Findings: 

  • Hungary ranks as the 10th best country in Europe for outdoor workouts, with its average temperature of 21.35℃ and sunshine duration of 1107.72 hours.
  • Spain is the ultimate European country for outdoor workouts with an overall outdoor workout score of 96.6, ranking highly for its average temperature and low pollen count.
  • France ranksed second with an outdoor workout index score of 93.1. Italy third with 89.7. 
  • Germany has the highest number of hiking trails of all the countries analysed however only ranks 4th overall. 
  • Greece has the highest average temperature in the top 10 and ranked 5th overall.
  • Fitness expert Carley Mellors-Blair offers key advice and comments on the impacts exercising outdoors can have on a person’s workout.

Hungary ranked tenth best European country for outdoor workouts

Live Rugby Tickets found that Hungary is one of the best countries for an outdoor workout, with a suitability score of 65.5/100. The country has a high pollen count (0.75 grains per m3) and low number of hiking trails (2,233). Hungary has 93% fewer walking trails than Germany, which is home to the most in the top ten (35,092). Despite this, Hungary still makes the top 10, with its average temperature of 21.35℃ and sunshine duration of 1107.72 hours.

Top 10 best European countries for exercising outdoors

Rank

Country

Average Temperature (°C)

Average relative humidity %

Average wind speed (metres per second) 

Total sunshine duration (h)

Average pollen count label

Number of hiking trails

Outdoor workout suitability score / 100

1

Spain

21.71

49.67

0.33

1289.33

Low

14,818

96.6

2

France

18.94

65.78

0.65

986.39

Medium

16,955

93.1

3

Italy

20.96

64.30

0.28

1197.63

Medium

11,028

89.7

4

Germany

17.87

68.51

0.82

862.52

High

35,092

86.2

5

Greece

22.73

55.07

0.60

1253.80

Low

2,367

82.8

6

Switzerland

13.76

75.64

0.16

902.36

Low

10,302

79.3

7

Netherlands

17.66

72.66

1.19

823.19

High

5,784

75.9

8

Croatia

20.93

65.41

0.49

1134.87

Low

2,848

72.4

9

United Kingdom

14.36

78.63

1.34

623.60

High

23,683

69.0

10

Hungary

21.35

62.47

0.58

1107.72

High

2,233

65.5

Live Rugby Tickets found that Spain is crowned the ultimate country for an outdoor workout, with a suitability score of 96.6/100. The country boasts the second highest average temperature of the top ten countries analysed (21.71°C), only behind Greece (22.73°C). As exercising in high humidity can lead to dehydration, fitness fanatics in Spain can take advantage of low humidity levels ideal for outdoors (49.67). This is 36% lower than the United Kingdom, which has the highest humidity level in the top ten (78.63%).

France places second with an outdoor workout suitability score of 93.1/100. With average temperatures of 18.94°C and a medium pollen count (0.29 grains per m3), France is a more favourable destination for outdoor workouts than Belgium, which has a high pollen count of 0.67 grains per m3. Low rainfall in France has also contributed to a high suitability score. The total precipitation per month is among the lowest of the top ten (265.05 mm), nearly half the level of rainfall experienced in Switzerland (620.13). France’s low precipitation is vital for exercising outside because increased precipitation creates wet surfaces which can lead to injuries.

Italy’s outdoor suitability score of 89.7/100 ranks them third. Italy has the third highest sunshine hours (1,197.63) in the top ten, giving fitness fanatics plenty of opportunity to exercise outdoors during the day. This is almost a quarter (24%) more sunshine hours than Switzerland, which has just 902.36. Also contributing to Italy’s score is its wind speed of just 0.28 m/s — the second lowest wind speed in the top 10 — over one metre per second slower on average than the United Kingdom (1.34 m/s). Having a low wind speed is beneficial for exercising outdoors because higher winds can negatively affect balance.

At the bottom of the top 10 chart is Hungary, with an outdoor workout suitability score of 65.5/100. Hungary places low in the ranking due to its high pollen count (0.75 grains per m3) and low number of hiking trails (2,233). Hungary has 93% fewer walking trails than Germany, which is home to the most in the top ten (35,092). 

Fitness expert, founder of Altered Health Solutions and author of I Am Not My Diagnosis, Carley Mellors-Blair explains why conditions like humidity are key for an outdoor workout: “Exercising in high humidity can increase body temperature, which has positive and negative impacts. The negative part is that it can reduce endurance, cause muscles to fatigue quicker, and can also cause dehydration. It’s possible to lose more calories, but if you go too hard for too long, it can cause more problems than positive effects.”

Hungarian U17 national team defeats Wales with three-goal victory!

u17 hungary wales

Two second-half goals sealed a comprehensive victory for Attila Belvon’s team over Wales in their first group match of the UEFA men’s U17 European Championship tournament on Wednesday.

This was the team’s first competitive match under national coach Attila Belvon, since as hosts, playing European Championship qualifiers hadn’t been necessary. Opponents Wales, on the other hand, progressed from their qualifying groups both in autumn and spring, defeating both Croatia and Sweden on their way to this latest edition of UEFA U17 European Championship.

Although there wasn’t a full house at the Nándor Hidegkuti Stadium in Budapest, the fans created a great atmosphere in the arena from the outset. Hungary started the match a little nervously and several errors were evident as Wales dominated possession for the first half an hour or so, the visitors creating two opportunities in that time.

u17 hungary wales
Szilárd Szabó’s goal is celebrated by the players during the Hungary-Wales match. The host Hungarian team defeated Wales 3-0. Source: MTI/Szilárd Koszticsák

Firstly, in the 19th minute, Hatch headed narrowly wide, then in the 31st minute Morgan hit the post. The hosts threatened from corners and free kicks at this stage of the game and it wasn’t until the 41st minute that their first really big chance was created, when Attila Girsik’s superb pass sent Benedek Simon in on goal, but instead of shooting, he tried to go around goalkeeper Margetson and from an acute angle he could only shoot wide.

The Honvéd forward made amends just two minutes later though, latching on to Ádám Bagi’s pass, turning away from his defender and dispatching the ball into Wales’s net.

Wales started the second half in busier fashion, but the first clear sight of goal fell to Benedek Simon again, when he reached Varga’s pass and stroked the ball past the onrushing goalkeeper, only to miss the target by a few centrimetres.

u17 hungary wales
The Hungarian national team before the start of the Hungary-Wales match in the 1st round of the group stage of the U17 European Football Championship at the New Hidegkuti Nándor Stadium on 17 May 2023.
Source: MTI/Szilárd Koszticsák

In the 69th minute, Belvon made two substitutions, Csaba Molnár and Szilárd Szabó entered the field of play and they both made an almost immediate impact, Molnár shooting at goal from the left channel and Szabó converting the ball which had rebounded off the goalkeeper into the net from close range.

Hungary continued to threaten Wales’s backline and the match was finally decided in the 81st minute when a corner from the left found Ádám Umathum and he slid the ball into the net for Hungary’s third unanswered goal of the game.

There were no further goals, so Hungary can be very satisfied with their well-deserved opening victory, thanks largely to an excellent second-half display.

Hungary-Wales 3-0 (HT: 1-0)

Hungary: Áron Yaakobishvili – Attila Girsik, Ádám Umathum, Dominik Kaczvinszki, Csaba Hornyák – Zétény Varga (Csaba Molnár, 69), Noah Fenyő (Manuel Burghart, 90), Martin Kern (Bence Somfalvi, 80), Hunor Németh – Benedek Simon (Mátyás Vidnyánszki, 80), Ádám Bagi (Szilárd Szabó, 69). Head coach: Attila Belvon

Wales: Margetson – Thomas, Clarke, Lawlor, Beecher – Perret, Crew, Andrews – Biancheri, Morgan, Hatch. Head coach: Craig Knight

Goalscorers: Simon (43), Szabó (74), Á. Umathum. (81).

PHOTOS: the mascot animal of the World Athletics Championships in Budapest unveiled

Athletics mascot

Youhuu the racka sheep will be the mascot of the World Athletics Championships in Budapest. At the National Athletics Centre, the international federation is holding an inspection ahead of the World Championships, which start on 19 August.

In 100 days’ time, one of the world’s biggest and most prestigious sporting events, the World Athletics Championships, will begin. The World Championships, which kick off on 19 August, will be held in Budapest. According to Ádám Schmidt, the Hungarian State Secretary for Sport, the organisation of the event is in the home straight. The aim is to organise the best World Championships ever.

Balázs Németh, the CEO, said that 3 billion people will have the opportunity to tune in to the broadcasts, and one billion will almost certainly watch around the world. 203 countries have entered so far, and they aim to sell 400,000 tickets.

According to Miklós Gyulai, president of the Hungarian federation, 45-50 Hungarian athletes can be expected to participate, telex.hu reports.

The mascot of the event, a racka sheep named Youhuu, was also introduced. This animal is native to the Carpathian Basin, including Csepel Island, which will host the event.

“Lovable, unique and proud to be Hungarian, it has everything we want to say. Let’s all be Youhuuk, everyday heroes,” rtl.hu quotes Balázs Németh as saying.

The most picturesque e-scooter and bicycle routes in Budapest

Andrássy Avenue Cycling

Tourists are flocking to Hungary in the summer to visit the vibrant city of Budapest. Although public transport is famously efficient in the city centre, it is worth checking out the picturesque scooter and bicycle routes that crisscross Budapest, touching the most famous landmarks. 

Must-visit Heroes’ Square & City Park

One of the best e-scooter routes is found around the City Park and Heroes’ Square. Here you can hop on your e-scooter or bike and enjoy an active sightseeing tour. During the ride, you can take a view of the historic museums of Budapest, such as the Museum of Fine Arts or the Hall of Art. If you ran out of breath while pedalling, take a break at Heroes’ Square and explore the Memorial Stone of Heroes.

Budapest Heroes' Square Cycle
Cycle around Heroes’ Square. Photo: FB/Budapest Bike Breeze

Ride an e-scooter along the Danube

If you want to see all the famous sights within one tour, we recommend the following route: Erzsébet Square – Saint Stephen’s Basilica – Szabadság Square – Parliament – Panorama of Buda on the river bank – Chain Bridge. You can ride along the Danube River while admiring the beautiful panorama of Buda and Pest. In addition, the magnificent Hungarian Parliament is also included in the itinerary and so is the breathtaking Chain Bridge.

Pedal through the illustrious Andrássy Avenue

You kick off your e-scooter or bicycle tour at St. Stephen’s Basilica, which is located in the heart of Budapest. Ride along Andrássy Avenue and take a glance at the Hungarian State Opera House and the House of Terror on the way. This postcard-worthy route will pass by stunning Neo-renaissance mansions and a number of popular souvenir shops, where you can buy some famous Hungaricums.

Discover Margaret Island by bicycle

If you are looking for a short and sweet bicycle ride in nature, Margaret Island is the perfect place for you. Margaret Island serves as a peaceful hideaway from hectic downtown Budapest. Charming walkways, flower gardens, romantic ruins and century-old trees await you on this green oasis. Both locals and tourists enjoy cycling around the island to find some peace and serenity. You can take a brief stop at the zoo or grab a bite at the cute cafes after the ride.

Andrássy Avenue Cycling
Cycling down Andrássy Avenue. Photo: FBBudapest Bike Breeze

Fairy-tale ride at Buda Castle

One of the most famous sights of Budapest is undoubtedly the Buda Castle, located in the Castle District. The Castle District tour is an easy and stunning ride you can embark on with your e-scooter. Along the way, you can spot the monumental Matthias Church and the marvellous Fisherman’s Bastion. If you pick this route, you can admire an impressive array of baroque and neo-classical houses, churches and public buildings in the Castle District.

Hungary in the world’s top concerning best outdoor workouts

sport

Recent reports predict that the demand for outdoor exercise will soar in 2023, and with searches for “outdoor fitness classes near me” rising by 200%* — it is the perfect opportunity to start thinking about moving our workouts outdoors. Hungary ranks tenth with a final score of 65.5/100. Contributing to Hungary’s score is 1107.72 sunshine hours per month. This is nearly double the sunshine hours the United Kingdom has per month (623.60).  

With this in mind, the experts at Live Rugby Tickets were keen to discover which European countries are the best for an outdoor workout. To do this, they created a points-based index system evaluating several factors in 28 European countries, including average temperature, wind speed, pollen count, humidity level and sunshine hours. Each country was then ranked out of 100 for its suitability for an outdoor workout this summer.

Key Findings: 

  • Hungary rank as the tenth best country for an outdoors workout
  • Spain is the ultimate European country for outdoor workouts, ranking highly for its average temperature and low pollen count.
  • Greece has the highest average temperature in the top 10 but only manages to rank 5th overall.
  • Germany has the highest number of hiking trails of all the countries analysed however only ranks 4th overall.
  • Fitness expert Carley Mellors-Blair offers key advice and comments on the impacts exercising outdoors can have on a person’s workout.

The best European countries for an outdoor workout:

Rank Country Average Temperature (°C) Average relative humidity % Average wind speed (metres per second) Total sunshine duration (h) Average pollen count label Number of hiking trails Outdoor workout suitability score / 100
1 Spain 21.71 49.67 0.33 1289.33 Low 14,818 96.6
2 France 18.94 65.78 0.65 986.39 Medium 16,955 93.1
3 Italy 20.96 64.30 0.28 1197.63 Medium 11,028 89.7
4 Germany 17.87 68.51 0.82 862.52 High 35,092 86.2
5 Greece 22.73 55.07 0.60 1253.80 Low 2,367 82.8
6 Switzerland 13.76 75.64 0.16 902.36 Low 10,302 79.3
7 Netherlands 17.66 72.66 1.19 823.19 High 5,784 75.9
8 Croatia 20.93 65.41 0.49 1134.87 Low 2,848 72.4
9 United Kingdom 14.36 78.63 1.34 623.60 High 23,683 69
10 Hungary 21.35 62.47 0.58 1107.72 High 2,233 65.5

Hungary rank tenth for best outdoor workouts  

Hungary ranks tenth with a final score of 65.5/100. Contributing to Hungary’s score is 1107.72 sunshine hours per month. This is nearly double the sunshine hours the United Kingdom has per month (623.60). Spain is the ultimate country for an outdoor workout, with a suitability score of 96.6/100. Spain has the second highest average temperature of the top ten countries analysed (21.71°C), only behind Greece (22.73°C). As working out in high humidity can lead to dehydration, low humidity levels in Spain (49.67%) makes it one of the ultimate locations for outdoors exercise. This is 36% lower than the United Kingdom, which has the highest humidity level in the top ten (78.63%).

Fitness expert, founder of Altered Health Solutions, Carley Mellors-Blair explains why these conditions are key for an outdoor workout. “Exercising in high humidity can increase body temperature, which has positive and negative impacts. The negative part is that it can reduce endurance, cause muscles to fatigue quicker, and can also cause dehydration. It’s possible to lose more calories, but if you go too hard for too long, it can cause more problems than positive effects.”

France places second with an outdoor workout suitability score of 93.1/100. With average temperatures of 18.94°C and a medium pollen count (0.29 grains per m3), France is a more favourable destination for outdoor workouts than Belgium, which has a high pollen count of 0.67 grains per m3. Low rainfall in France has also contributed to a high suitability score. The total precipitation per month is among the lowest of the top ten (265.05 mm), nearly half the level of rainfall experienced in Switzerland (620.13 mm). France’s low precipitation is vital for exercising outside because increased precipitation creates wet surfaces which can lead to injuries.

Italy’s outdoor suitability score of 89.7/100 ranks the country in third place. Italy has the third highest sunshine hours (1,197.63) in the top ten, giving fitness fanatics plenty of opportunity to exercise outdoors during the day. This is almost a quarter (24%) more sunshine hours than Switzerland, which has just 902.36 hours. Also contributing to Italy’s score is its wind speed of just 0.28 m/s — the second lowest wind speed in the top 10 — over one metre per second slower on average than the United Kingdom (1.34 m/s). Having a low wind speed is beneficial for exercising outdoors because higher winds can negatively affect balance.

Carley Mellors-Blair adds:

“Exercising in plenty of sunshine can have a massively positive impact. It increases your vitamin D absorption, which is amazing, lowers your blood pressure, can increase cognitive function, and boosts your mood. Also releasing happy hormones!” “If extremely windy, exercising outside can be unsafe. If you are untrained and you are having to fight against the wind, or if the wind is behind you, it can affect your form, so this increases the likelihood of strains and possibly injury. It can affect energy levels, and endurance too. Light wind can be quite pleasant when exercising, but it depends on which direction the wind is going.”

The country least suitable for an outdoor workout:

Liechtenstein is the least suitable country for an outdoor workout, with an overall workout suitability score of 3.4/100. Liechtenstein’s high monthly rainfall of 791.61 mm, 66% more than neighbouring country France (264.05 mm), contributes significantly to this score. It’s important to exercise in areas with low precipitation as increased rainfall creates wet surfaces that can be hazardous and increase the risk of injuries. Carley Mellors-Blair advises what to consider before exercising outdoors: “Make sure to plan ahead. Be sure to wear the correct footwear, depending on the exercise. Wear the right clothing, drink lots of fluids, and do some research on the terrain and surface you will be working out on.”

Tour de Hongrie to get underway on May 10 with star line-up

Tour de Hongrie

The world’s top sprinters will compete in the Tour de Hongrie cycling race between May 10 and 14, the event’s chief organiser said in Kaposvár on Wednesday.

Károly Eisenkrammer told a press conference that Italy’s Elia Viviani, who won the Giro d’Italia race in 2018, will be among top cyclists competing.

He attributed the event’s star power to the cooperation of Hungary’s cities and public road operators, the police and sponsors, thanks to which the 44th Hungarian circuit is part of the ProSeries of the UCI international confederation.

The team presentation of the 879km race, with the participation of 22 teams, will start out on May 9 from Keszthely.

Tour de Hongrie
Tour de Hongrie

More details on the official site of Tour de Hongrie

We already wrote about Budapest-Balaton bike path completed, details HERE.

The Unlikely Game: How Cricket is winning Over Football Fans in Hungary

cricket

Sponsored content

Football has traditionally been the most popular sport in Hungary, a nation with a diverse sporting culture. However, cricket has gained a remarkable level of popularity among Hungarians in recent years. This improbable trend is the result of several factors, including cricket’s singular allure and football’s difficulties in Hungary.

Cricket vs. Football: Why cricket is gaining popularity in Hungary

Cricket is relatively obscure in Hungary, but it has been gaining fans. Cricket’s appeal helps explain this. Cricket, unlike football, is intricate and strategic. Success takes extensive game knowledge and talent. Playing and watching it is tough and rewarding.

Cricket’s complexity and social appeal draw Hungarians. Players and supporters typically drink and converse while watching the game. In a culture that values socializing, this is a terrific method to meet new people.

However, football in Hungary has been struggling recently. Corruption and scandals have plagued Hungarian football, and the national squad has struggled internationally. Football fans have gotten disillusioned and sought alternatives.

The rise of cricket in Hungary

The rise of cricket in Hungary can be traced back to the founding of the Hungarian Cricket Association in 2009. Since then, the sport has grown rapidly, with an increasing number of people taking up the game. This growth has been supported by the development of local leagues and tournaments, which have provided opportunities for players of all skill levels to participate in the sport.

Today, cricket is played in a number of cities across Hungary, including Budapest, Debrecen, and Szeged. The sport has attracted players from a wide range of backgrounds, including both Hungarians and expats. This has helped to create a diverse and inclusive cricket community in Hungary, which is one of the reasons for its growing popularity.

The future of cricket in Hungary

Despite its increasing prominence, cricket in Hungary still confronts a number of obstacles. One of the greatest obstacles is the dearth of accessible funding and resources to support the sport. In Hungary, cricket is still a comparatively minor and obscure sport, making it challenging to garner the necessary funding and support for its development.

Another obstacle cricket encounters in Hungary is competition from other sports. Football remains the most popular sport in Hungary, but basketball and handball also have large fan bases. In order for cricket to establish itself as a viable and competitive sport in Hungary, significant effort will be required.

Despite these obstacles, there is a tremendous opportunity for cricket in Hungary to continue to develop and succeed. Significant progress has already been made in the country, and there is a developing community of players and supporters who are committed to its growth. Many cricket enthusiasts import cricket bats from India, the finest country for bat production. In the future years, cricket could become a significant sport in Hungary with sustained support and investment.

Cricket vs. Football: Why cricket is gaining popularity in Hungary


  1. a) Unique appeal of cricket

Cricket has a unique appeal that sets it apart from football and other popular sports in Hungary. Two main factors contribute to this appeal:

  1. b) Complexity and strategy

Cricket is an intricate and strategic sport that demands a great deal of skill and accuracy. The sport involves numerous techniques, including batting, bowling, fielding, and strategy. Due to its complexity and emphasis on strategy, cricket attracts participants and spectators who appreciate a mental challenge.

  1. c) Social aspect

The communal aspect of cricket adds to its allure. The sport is renowned for its welcoming and diverse culture, in which participants of all ages and backgrounds can appreciate the game together. Those who may feel excluded or marginalized in other sports will find this aspect especially appealing.

  1. d) Challenges faced by football in Hungary

While football remains the most popular sport in Hungary, the sport has faced its fair share of challenges in recent years. Two main challenges are:

1) Lack of success at the international level

Despite its popularity, the Hungarian national football team has not had much success at the international level in recent years. This lack of success has led some fans to become disillusioned with the sport and to seek out other options.

2) Corruption and scandals

Another challenge facing football in Hungary is the issue of corruption and scandals. In recent years, there have been numerous high-profile cases of corruption and match-fixing, which have damaged the sport’s reputation and eroded fans’ trust.

The rise of cricket in Hungary

Despite the challenges faced by cricket, the sport has been growing steadily in Hungary, thanks in large part to the efforts of the Hungarian Cricket Association (HCA).

The founding of the Hungarian Cricket Association

The HCA was founded in 2006 with the aim of promoting and developing cricket in Hungary. Since then, the organization has worked tirelessly to establish a strong foundation for the sport, including setting up leagues and tournaments, and promoting the game to new audiences.

The growth of the sport

Thanks to the efforts of the HCA, cricket has been growing steadily in Hungary. There has been an increase in participation, with more and more players taking up the sport each year. The sport has also seen the development of local leagues and tournaments, providing opportunities for players to compete and showcase their skills.

Increased participation

More and more Hungarians are taking up cricket, either as a way to stay active and healthy or as a way to connect with others and make new friends. This increased participation has helped to raise the profile of the sport and generate more interest in it.

Development of local leagues and tournaments

Along with increased participation, the development of local leagues and tournaments has also played a key role in the growth of cricket in Hungary. These leagues and tournaments provide opportunities for players of all skill levels to compete and develop their skills, and have helped to build a strong community around the sport.

In conclusion, cricket is constantly acquiring popularity among Hungarian sports enthusiasts. The opportunity for cricket to establish itself in the country has been created by the sport’s unique allure and the difficulties confronted by football. Although there are still impediments to surmount, the development of cricket in Hungary provides optimism for the sport’s future in the country.

Football: Hungarian coach to save top German club

Dárdai Pál, footballer, coach

Former Hungarian ex-football player turned coach Pál Dárdai is to return to the bench of Berlin-based Hertha BSC. This was confirmed on the official website of the sports club on Sunday afternoon.

This will be the third time Dárdai is appointed as head of the team in the last 8 years. He first led the German top club between 2015 and 2019 and was then appointed later again in 2021. Now, his job is clear, but the task is rather hard to tackle. He is to save Hertha from relegation from the German Bundesliga, according to Nemzeti Sport.

Club and national football legend

Dárdai’s history with Hertha Berlin goes back all the way to 1997. He transferred to the club at the age of 21 and spent the rest of his professional career here. With a grand total of 373 matches, he holds the title in the team’s history for most appearances. In addition, Dárdai also debuted countless times on the international stage, playing 61 matches in the colours of the Hungarian national football team.

After retiring in 2011, he worked as part of the staff for the junior teams at Hertha, before being promoted to head coach of the adult team in 2015. Originally meant as a temporary position, he fulfilled the role until 2019. In these 4 years, the club regularly finished in the first half of the table, even reaching Europa League qualification in 2017.

In 2019, he returned to working with the youth team. However, this did not last long, as in early 2021 they called him back to save the team from relegation to the second league. He managed to achieve this but was sacked regardless after less than a year for unsatisfying performance and his feud with the sports director of the club, Fredi Bobic.

Potential saviour

It looks like the leadership in Berlin expects Dárdai to perform yet another miracle. The outlook is bleak, to say the least. Hertha BSC currently occupies the last place (18th) on the Bundesliga Table, with only 22 points after 28 matches. With just 6 matches left, the club must reach at least the 15th spot if they want to avoid relegation.

“Everyone knows what I feel towards Hertha. I didn’t hesitate a second when they called me. We have 6 matches left in the season, possibly 8. I will do everything in my capacity to keep the club in the Bundesliga. It won’t be an easy task, but I am looking forward to the challenge”

– Dárdai proclaimed.

According to him, the management of the club convinced him for hours to take the role. He finally agreed and promised to coach the team until the summer. After that, the future is yet uncertain.

Read also:

WNBA: Four-time champion Minnesota drafts Hungarian basketball player Dorka Juhász!

dorka juhász basketball

Dorka Juhász was drafted with the 16th pick by the Minnesota Lynx in the North American Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) amateur draft.

Juhász spent the recently completed college season with the 12-time defending champion UConn Huskies, who finished in the top 16 of the playoffs, mti.hu reports.

The Minnesota Lynx were champions in 2011, 2013, 2015 and 2017, finishing ninth in the regular season last season with 14 wins and 22 losses, missing the playoffs. Cheryl Reeve, the US national team’s head coach, is in charge of the professional work.

The mother of the 23-year-old, 191 cm tall Dorka Juhász is the 125-time national team member Hajnalka Balázs, who won the bronze medal at the European Championships in 1991.

This year’s WNBA season starts on May 19, but according to wbasket.hu, the Hungarian legionnaire can make history with her club in the preseason. On 13 May, the Chicago Sky and the Minnesota Lynx will meet in Toronto in the first Canadian game in WNBA history.

In recent years, Dorka Juhász has played for Ohio State for three seasons. She then spent two seasons with 12-time champion UConn, where she reached the round of 16 in her last season, starting 28 games and averaging 33.4 minutes, 11.9 points, 8.8 rebounds and 1.6 assists.

As for Juhász’s teammates, the Lynx’s current – not yet final – roster includes Tokyo Olympic champion Napheesa Collier, who was set to sign with Sopron in 2021 but withdrew after the WNBA season citing health reasons. Also on the list is three-time WNBA All-Star Kayla McBride, who has been to Sopron, and Bosnian Nikolina Milic, who previously played for Szekszárd.

Read also:

The Battle for the Green Jacket and the Crown at Augusta 2023

gold

Sponsored content

The Masters 2023 promises to be as riveting as ever. It is the first golf major of the year. It is Jack Nicklaus who has won the most Masters in the history of the tournament with six wins, and Tiger Woods is not far behind with five wins in total.

The Masters is held each year in Augusta, Georgia, USA. It is one of the four major professional golf tournaments. If you want to see golfing skills at their very best, this tournament attracts the very best golfers. The tournament is also known for its unique traditions, one of which is the green jacket awarded to the winner.

The fabulous annual home of the Masters, Augusta National Golf Club, was founded by Bobby Jones and Clifford Roberts. This was way back in 1931. Bobby Jones found the rolling terrain of the area appealing, and in 1934 he invited the world’s best golfers to a contest there, and this is how the Masters was born.

The Masters – most popular golf event in the world

The Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club is one of the most popular golf events in the world. It attracts the attention of fans and bettors who wager on a variety of outcomes. Bettors will know that world no. 1 is American, Scottie Scheffler.

Scheffler is the current holder of the Masters, winning in 2022. He finished the tournament with a 10-under par 278 and finished ahead of Rory McIlroy in second place. In case you reside in a region where sports betting is regulated and physical sportsbooks are legal, you have the opportunity to place a wager on the player you think will win the Masters. There are also international betting sites.

Everybody is dying to know who will be playing in the 2023 Masters, which is set for April 3-9 at Augusta National Golf Course. There are numerous ways for players to qualify for the first of golf’s majors. Being a past champion and winner of other major championships will stand a golfer in good stead.

Just some names listed for the Masters 2023 tournament are –

  • Fred Couples
  • Tiger Woods
  • Sergio Garcia
  • Bernhard Langer
  • Sandy Lyle
  • Dustin Johnson
  • Hideki Matsuyama
  • Jose Maria Olazabal
  • Phil Mickelson
  • Charl Schwartzel
  • Vijay Singh

The field is one of the smaller ones on the PGA Tour schedule. Usually, there will be about 90–100 players, but this year there is likely to be about 89 golfers competing.

The tournament will be broadcasted the entire week

So from April 3rd to the 9th 2023, top world players like the ones mentioned above will converge at Augusta National Golf Course. Fans will be able to see the event on Sky Sports, as they will be broadcasting all the action throughout the week. Golf fans will also be able to stream the action on the official Sky Go app.

The Masters is a 72-hole golf course, with the tournament going over 4 days.

You can safely say that The Masters is packed full of history and is one of the events that is on everyone’s bucket list. For the golfers, this is a massive prize of $2,700,000, and the winner also receives a lifetime invitation to the Masters. Add to this an invitation to all the major tournaments that take place within the next 5 years.

During the Master’s week, most of the golfers stay in various accommodations around the Augusta area.

Travel packages will allow you to get in on all the excitement

If you want to experience all the thrills of golf’s most prestigious tournament, some amazing travel packages are waiting for you. You will enjoy first-class accommodations near Augusta National as well as pre-travel personal concierge services.

Find customized travel packages that will ensure you benefit from an extraordinary sporting event that few of your friends will have witnessed.

Why do men like sports more than women?

sport

Sponsored content

Why do men like sports more than women? This is a common question that continues to come to our minds everytime we see a typical entertaining activity preferred by men and a typical entertaining activity preferred mostly by women. And while in the last years, sports viewership by females has increased much, a considerably big gap between the two genders when it comes to watching sports, remains. 

What is it that makes sports more interesting and appealing to men? And what is it that makes sports less attractive to women?

Taking some statistical data for Hungary, we explore how differently sports are viewed by males and females. 

For men, sports are an absolute means of entertainment and fun. Men like to get together, organize a sports’ night and watch games with their friends while discussing, analyzing or betting on these games at sportfogadás. A recent study illustrated that although nearly 48% of Hungarians are not active in some sports or don’t have any direct involvement with a specific sport, the sport viewership rates are very high. 

In fact, more than 80% of men consume sports as an audience. Whether actively involved in sports or non-involved with sports, entertainment, enjoyment and excitement are the three most important reasons why fans like to watch sports, while socialization – being with friends, interacting and communicating – is also cited as a critical factor that makes sports’ watching a very likable activity. 

Getting with other people, forming groups of friends, creating new friends, talking about both sports and non-sports related subjects as well as communicating in more loose ways are seen as the most important reasons that make sports’ watching so popular among men. 

Another very important issue in explaining why men like to watch sports more than women is the involvement of technology in the entire activity. Men are also fond of the supporting aspects surrounding the entire habit of watching a sports game. For example, being able to watch a sport event on a big screen TV, a high-tech system with very high resolution is one really important motivating factor. Men generally place much more emphasis on such things as technology in their experiences and watching sports could not be an exception to this. 

One very interesting thing regarding the distinction between males and females when it comes to sports viewership has to do with the fact that men watch more sports even when the events involve female sports. In fact, men like to watch sports more than women even in the female sports segments – such as female basketball, volleyball, tennis or any other sport. 

And then it is also the competitive nature of males that drives greater interest in sports viewership. Men by nature are more competitive and they value dominance, victory and distinction. Watching sports games and sports events in general, satisfies one of their primary needs, which is none other than to applaud superiority.

On the other hand, women tend to find less attractive the overall sports’ viewership culture. Statistical evidence suggests that women find less entertaining and less fun the whole thing of watching sports and they don’t associate it with socialization or a very pleasing experience, as men do. Women have less interest in sports which are more aggressive and offensive – as opposed to men. 

More on this, women like family gatherings or friends’ gatherings to be around events that are not so competitive. They like to agree more than they like to disagree! And above all, women like to talk about social issues when getting together with others. 

But lately there has been a growing number of women who follow and watch sports, not in the same systematic, invested manner that men do, but all enthusiastically and willingly, something which might at some point in the future make sports viewership more homogeneous amongst the two genders. 

PHOTOS: Budapest Rugby Fans Celebrate Exiles’ Victory Against Kecskemét

Hungary rugby Exiles'

The Budapest Exiles Rugby Club faced off against Kecskemét Rugby Club in an intense match at home in the Budapest Rugby Center. The game started off slowly as both teams defended very well, but it wasn’t long before Kecskemét earned a penalty goal in the 10th minute. The home team responded with a penalty goal of their own in the 22nd minute, followed by two quick tries scored by Kosa and Gilham, bringing the halftime score to 13-3 in favour of the Exiles.

After the half-time break, Kecskemét came back strong, scoring a try and a penalty goal to tie the game at 13-13. The home team captain, Erdélyi, managed to score a try, but Kecskemét quickly responded with another try and a successful conversion, bringing the score to 20-18 in favour of Kecskemét at the 73rd minute.
However, with only minutes left on the clock, the Exiles fought hard and managed to secure a penalty try in the 77th minute, ultimately securing the victory. The game showcased the physicality and competitiveness of both teams, with the Exiles ultimately prevailing.

Three new players were introduced to the home team: Brongniart, Lepine, and d’Esquerre, all of whom made significant contributions to the team’s success. The support from the fans was, as always, unparalleled, and the Exiles invite anyone interested to join them for their next game.

Budapest Hungary rugby
Photo: Thomas Kieffer

With this win, the Budapest Exiles Rugby Club has secured the second place in the first division rankings, and the next step towards earning a spot in the finals. Their next game will be held on the 22nd of April at the Budapest Rugby Center, where they will face off against Esztergom. The Budapest Exiles have proven to be a formidable force in the world of rugby, with their relentless spirit and determination to succeed. Their fans can be proud of their team’s accomplishments and look forward to seeing what the future holds for this talented group of athletes.

Here are some photos:

Read also:

Hungarian Football Federation: Banners depicting Greater Hungary not racist manifestations + Romania’s answer – UPDATE: UEFA

PM Orbán Greater Hungary scarf

The Hungarian Football Federation (Magyar Labdarúgó Szövetség, MLSZ) has allowed the introduction of banners depicting the historical map of Hungary (Greater Hungary) at national team matches under strict conditions.

According to a report on the MLSZ website published on Tuesday, it has requested a clear position from the European association (UEFA) and its anti-discrimination group (FARE) on the issue of allowing the display of the historical symbol, HellóMagyar writes.

Greater Hungary flag and Árpád stripes are not considered racist

“The two organisations, accepting the arguments of the MLSZ, acknowledged that the historical map of Hungary and the colours of the Árpád stripes do not constitute racist behaviour. However, this does not apply to the other symbols and inscriptions on the drapery, nor to the fan slogans,” the statement reads.

The MLSZ informed that the two organisations will continue to fight against exclusion, including racism. It will therefore continue to punish banners with such a message. At the same time, it considers it a significant step forward that a banner containing only a map of historical Hungary and the Hungarian national colours is not a disciplinary offence in itself.

Four conditions must be met

“As a result of the negotiations, the federation will allow the introduction of the drapery into the stadium, which symbolises respect for historic Hungary and solidarity with fans from abroad,” the resolution said, revealing that four conditions must be met. The conditions are the following:

  • can only show a map of historical Hungary;
  • only red, white and green colours are allowed;
  • the banner must be presented in the usual way to check its contents and to check for flame retardancy;
  • the banner in the stadium must not restrict fans from watching the match without disturbance.

However, supporters should be aware that if any racist or political message is displayed on the drapes, or if any racist or political message is attached to the drapes, this will result in disciplinary action. In doing so, the fans are harming themselves, their fellow supporters, the team and the image of Hungarian football.

The Romanian answer

Accoring to Telex.hu, the Romanian Football Federation (RFR) reacted to the statement of the MLSZ by saying that it “misinterpreted the UEFA and FARE position”.

“UEFA has not allowed and will not allow the display of the symbols mentioned by the Hungarian Football Federation in matches played at the European level,” the FRF wrote on its website. According to them, the MLSZ was at fault when interpreting the UEFA’s decision.

The Romanian Football Federation underscores that revisionism is unaccepted in football. It trusts that UEFA will continue to sanction the display of such symbols in stadiums, which can incite hatred and violence in matches at the European level, Telex.hu writes.

UPDATE – UEFA’s reaction

UEFA has denied that it has allowed the use of banners depicting historical Hungary at matches of the Hungarian national football team. It has even imposed sanctions for the display of such props, TransTelex reports. In response to requests from Romanian newspapers, the organisation’s press department sent a clarification of its position to several newspapers.

In its reply, the UEFA states that it is aware of press reports that it has approved the use of flags and banners depicting historical Hungary in UEFA matches. However, this is not the case.

The UEFA has not authorised the use of such flags or banners at any level, and the presence of such flags and banners may therefore lead to disciplinary consequences.

Housing market Rent prices Budapest downtown
Read alsoRental market: wage increase in Hungary drives up prices

Major sports championships and what they mean for fans

Hungary football fans

Sponsored content

This year, several major sports championships are all taking place in the same season, making it a prime time for sports betting enthusiasts. Whether you’re a fan of football, basketball, or hockey fan, this is an exciting time to be a sports enthusiast. But why is it so special when multiple major sports championships happen in the same season? Let’s take a look.

A Chance to Witness History Being Made

Major championships are memorable events that are considered defining moments in sports history. From baseball’s Boston Red Sox ending their 86-year championship drought in 2014 to basketball’s Golden State Warriors breaking the record for most wins in a single season (with 73 wins) during the 2015-16 season, major championships are iconic parts of history. The drama of watching athletes competing at their highest level is part of why these events are so entertaining and exciting to watch.

Think about it—we will never forget where we were when our favorite team won the championship this year! Plus, with more than one major event happening during the same time frame, there’s more to discuss and share with friends and family members who aren’t as into sports as you are. Ultimately major sporting events give everyone something to bond over and enjoy together.

The Impact on Fans Emotionally & Socially

Major championships impact fans emotionally and socially beyond providing entertainment and creating rivalries between teams or players. Winning a championship can unite communities under one banner and provide hope during difficult times (see: Chicago Cubs winning their first World Series title since 1908). It can also provide solace when a beloved athlete retires or tragedy strikes (see: New York Yankees honoring late teammate Mariano Rivera with his 6th World Championship).

These moments make for a perfect place for fans across different teams and sports to come together for one purpose – a love for sports! It also encourages fans to learn about other sports they may not typically follow. For example, hockey fans might watch the basketball finals out of curiosity and become interested in the sport.

The Rivalries That Fuel Championships

In addition to witnessing history being made, major championships are so popular due to the rivalries they create between teams or players. Some rivalries span decades; others may only last one season or tournament. Either way, they provide intense competition and entertainment, making them must-watch television for any fan.

One excellent example is the tennis Federer vs. Nadal rivalry that has become a mainstay at Wimbledon every summer since 2003. From dramatic five-setters on the Centre Court to high-stakes matches in front of millions worldwide, fans look forward to this matchup with great anticipation. So it’s no surprise that this rivalry has become one of the most iconic sporting rivalries in modern times.

Finally, having multiple championship seasons at once means that you can celebrate your team’s win no matter where you are, whether they are virtual or in-person (depending on current safety protocols). You can join others cheering on their teams at the local bar or share memes and GIFs with fellow fans online. Everyone has something to be excited about during these monumental occasions, whether your team wins or loses!

Conclusion

Experiencing multiple major championships in the same season is a very special time for sports fans. It unites people from all walks of life with one thing in common—a love of sports! It also creates powerful moments that stay with us throughout our lives. So break out your jerseys and get ready to cheer on your favorite team this championship season!

The Famous Magyar Agár: Dog Racing in Hungary

magyar agár Hungarian greyhound

Sponsored article

Dog racing has long been a popular pastime in Eastern Europe, with Hungary boasting some of the continent’s most impressive tracks. Alsonémedi Greyhound Park, Isaszeg greyhound track, and Rábapatona race track are three of the finest, offering the Hungarian people access to a historic sport.

A trip to the races is hugely popular in Hungary, with an obsession for dog racing stemming from the love of the nation’s most famous dog, the Magyar agár.

Hungarian Dog Racing and the Iconic Kincsem Park

There are several premium facilities across Hungary that provide the perfect day out for dog racing fans. Kincsem Park is the jewel in Hungary’s racing crown and even rivals some of the best venues in Europe, including England’s famous Towcester.

For the past two years, Towcester has hosted some of the fastest dogs in the sport at the English Greyhound Derby, with famed hounds such as Fromposttopillar (15.00), Hopes Paddington (17.00) and Romeo Command (17.00) leading the latest greyhound betting odds for this year’s event.

The 400m Hungarian Greyhound Derby is the most iconic race held at Kincsem, with thousands of greyhound enthusiasts flocking to Budapest in July to watch the annual action unfold. The venue has even hosted festival days such as the 2022 International Horse and Greyhound competition, where attendees enjoyed European Derby racing, live music, and food from different cultures.

Kincsem Park is best known as a horse racing venue but opened its sparkling new greyhound track in 2015, thus diversifying its offering. As well as the Hungarian Derby, Kincsem hosts several events throughout the year with races taking place over 250 and 400 meters.

Although the Hungarian agár is no longer a racing dog, visitors to Kincsem Park can witness some incredibly prestigious events featuring some of the fastest competitors in the sport.

magyar agár Hungarian greyhound

Greyhound racing continues to thrive in many countries – particularly Hungary – and plenty of high-profile facilities remain across Europe. Kincsem Park has shown that by integrating a dog racing track into a multi-use facility, new fans can be attracted to ensure the future of greyhound racing remains bright.

History of the Magyar Agár

Also known as the Hungarian greyhound, the agár closely resembles a typical greyhound. Roughly 1,000 years ago, this dog could be found in abundance across the country, with exclusive agár racing enjoyed amongst the Hungarian elite.

greyhound-racing

Following the turn of the 20th century, the Hungarian greyhound vanished. It wasn’t until the mid-1900s that anything was done to protect the country’s famed sighthound. However, after much effort, a number of agárs were located and a breeding program left them thriving.

The Magyar agár is now considered a national treasure and the dog was honored recently when the Hungarian mint released a coin dedicated to the country’s sighthound. The coin was the third to be released in a series celebrating Eastern European dogs, with the vizsla and komondor coins printed in 2019 and 2020.

The sighthound has become synonymous with Hungarian culture, and although its days of racing are over, the thriving Magyar agár are kept as companions across the country and sometimes feature in conformation shows thanks to their beauty.

Why do Hungarians support „last Mohican” Fernando Alonso in Formula 1?

alonso

A huge portion of Hungarian Formula 1 fans support two-time world champion Fernando Alonso, who turns 42 this year. But why do the Spanish driver enjoy such popularity in a country that “only” hosts a race a year?

Fernando Alonso may celebrate his 42nd birthday this year, but he’s still in a great shape. He still has that speed and resilience that won him two world championship titles, which could be four with just a touch more luck.

The Spanish Samurai could deal a huge blow this year as well. After a risky move to Aston Martin from Alpine – where he previously won his two world titles – seems to pay off big times, with the British squad making huge gains.

Pálinka Budapest Airport
Read alsoHungarian pálinka for free at Budapest Airport!

Alonso could challenge for podiums and wins this year. This prospect might make Hungarian F1 fans go absolutely ballistic. But why do Hungarian F1 fans support Alonso instead of other younger F1 superstars like Max Verstappen, Charles Leclerc, or the new British superstar Lando Norris?

First, we must understand the differences between who watches Formula 1 globally and in Hungary. Recently – with the invaluable help of Netflix’s docudrama series Drive to Survive more and more young people started to watch F1. The growth is especially noticeable if we take a look at the gender of new supporters.

Female participants in F1’s recent Global Fan Survey almost doubled, with ESPN also reporting a record-high share of females in their audience. That change, however, is slow in Hungary, as the audience still mostly consists of middle-aged males.

Sports should be apolitical, according to Hungarians

Younger drivers like Norris likes to talk about the mental health issues of sportsman, while others like Lewis Hamilton started to embrace their position to talk about human rights issues.

These topics do not resonate well with the more conservative Hungarian audience, which likes to see sports and politics as separate entities.

Instead of dealing with intangible ideas in a sporting environment, Alonso lives for one thing: racing. He does not need to draw strength from a cause close to his heart, his sheer willpower and motivation are enough for him to keep going at 41.

That aspect of his character clearly appeals to the Hungarian audience. Also, let’s not forget that Alonso is the last driver who is contemporary for a large chunk of Hungarian F1 fans. Fernando Alonso reminds people of simpler times.

The fact that he does not comment on any issues other drivers are concerned with and fully focuses on racing, for Hungarians he embodies the perfect archetype of an F1 driver. He is the last Mohican of an era, where motorsport did not have such a pronounced social responsibility.

Pálinka Budapest Airport
Read alsoHungarian pálinka for free at Budapest Airport!