Why chess is Hungary’s answer to poker

Lea Hogg September 4, 2024

Hungary, renowned for its history and vibrant culture, harbours a quieter passion for chess that rivals poker as the country’s premier game of strategy. In Hungary, chess is more than just a game; it’s a cultural pillar and a strategic business tool. With its emphasis on foresight and patience, chess mirrors the skills of negotiation, offering a thoughtful way to build connections. If visiting Hungary, don’t just admire the architecture or savour the cuisine—play chess.

For business professionals, engaging in a game of chess can be a way to demonstrate strategic thinking in a low-pressure, yet meaningful setting. In Hungary, it’s not uncommon for business meetings to be prefaced or followed by a game of chess that becomes a way to showcase one’s ability to anticipate an opponent’s moves—an invaluable quality in business.

Exploring Budapest’s chess scene

In Budapest, the connection between chess and coffee is almost as strong as the link between chess and strategy. Chess cafes are popular spots for both casual and serious players, offering a space to enjoy a leisurely game while sipping on espresso. One such venue is the Maróczy Café, named after Géza Maróczy, a Hungarian grandmaster from the early 20th century.

Judit Polgár (pictured above), the greatest female chess player in history and a grandmaster at 15, together with her two sisters Susan and Sofia, embody Hungary’s admiration for mental agility, which extends into the business world. The Polgár Chess School, founded by the renowned Polgár family, offers chess education at various levels.

The Hungarian Chess Federation, also based in Budapest, organises events that feature group-based or one-on-one master classes with grandmasters. Chess Base Hungary provides training and arranges master classes with grandmasters in major cities across Hungary. Széchenyi Thermal Bath in Budapest, known for its outdoor chess games, occasionally hosts chess events, including master classes.

Sponsoring or hosting a chess event at one of these venues can be an excellent way for businesses to connect with the local community. Chess tournaments are well-attended events, attracting a diverse crowd of participants and spectators. By associating your brand with the game, you can tap into Hungary’s deep love of chess and position your company as one that values strategic thinking and intellectual engagement.

The growing business of online chess

Chess in Hungary, traditionally linked to intellectual skill, is evolving into a lucrative industry. Both online and offline tournaments are rapidly gaining popularity, offering attractive prize pools and betting opportunities that draw in participants and sponsors from around the world. Events like the annual Budapest Spring Festival feature grandmaster competitions that attract elite players from around the world. The rise of online chess platforms offers Hungarian players new avenues to compete internationally and monetise their skills through streaming on platforms like Twitch or by offering coaching and writing services.

Judit Polgár’s Global Chess Festival sponsored by Morgan Stanley takes place in Budapest on 17 September.