Budapest Mayor Karácsony Says Fidesz Is Over, Hopes for 2036 Olympics

In an extensive interview, Budapest mayor Karácsony Gergely declared that the ruling Fidesz party’s era is finished, calling it "kész, kampó." He also expressed optimism that Budapest could host the 2036 European Olympic Games, noting that major sports‑infrastructure upgrades are needed regardless of whether the event materialises.

Karácsony described the city’s precarious financial position, saying Budapest has long hovered on the edge of insolvency but avoided bankruptcy after the government postponed the deadline for a multi‑billion‑forint solidarity contribution to October 15. He outlined ongoing negotiations seeking roughly 200 billion forints in state aid to cover the city’s expected 100 billion‑forint contribution.

He said he is willing to meet Prime Minister Viktor Orbán personally and praised recent cooperation, while also commenting on the arrest of opposition figure Gergely Őrsi, urging respect for due‑process rights.