"The stadium is Orban's preferred arena, quite literally. More broadly, the vast network of football clubs, academies, and infrastructure projects across the country represents a material patronage network that ties local communities and local elites to Fidesz."
"Every club in the top division is somehow influenced by the party, either by politicians appointed to executive roles, by arms of the state with stakes in the club or by provision of funds."
"The most important revenue stream has been the TAO corporate income tax program. Introduced in 2011, this allows corporations to write off donations to clubs in selected sports as a tax deduction, sometimes up to 100%."
"Hungary is consistently ranked as the most corrupt nation in the 27-member EU, with vast sums funneled to government-backed clubs and contracts for construction reportedly handed to those close to Orban and his government."
JD Vance's promotional tour in Budapest underscores the political importance of venues like the Groupama Arena, where the US vice president spoke. This stadium, linked to Prime Minister Viktor Orban, symbolizes a broader patronage network connecting local communities to the ruling Fidesz party. Hungarian football clubs, influenced by state ties, benefit from the TAO tax program, allowing corporations to donate to sports clubs while receiving tax deductions. This system has led to significant funding for government-aligned clubs, contributing to Hungary's reputation for corruption within the EU.
Read at www.dw.com
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