Hungarian media figure Philip Rákay denies corruption allegations

Hungarian television presenter Philip Rákay has addressed recent allegations of corruption in a new interview. Rákay denied claims that he enriched himself through Fidesz or theft, specifically addressing investigations into the financing of the Petőfi-funded film, “Most vagy soha!”.

While the National Tax and Customs Administration (NAV) is investigating the film for suspected budget fraud, Rákay stated he served only as a creative producer and was not involved in financial or production decisions. He characterized the investigation as a political performance and noted that he has not yet been questioned by authorities, though the film's financial producer has been.

Rákay also addressed police investigations into a real estate transaction involving his company, Rácalmás Greendustry Projekt Zrt. The company acquired 42 hectares of industrial land in Rácalmás in 2022, near the headquarters of the South Korean tire manufacturer Hankook. Authorities are investigating whether the company gained access to non-public information regarding Hankook's expansion plans after the government designated the area as a special economic zone. Rákay has firmly denied any wrongdoing regarding the land deal.