Chess grandmaster Judit Polgar has declined an invitation from Hungarian Prime Minister Peter Magyar to serve as the country's interim president, citing the political climate and national division.
Magyar announced on Sunday, July 19, 2026, that he intended to offer Polgar the role until a new constitution is adopted, highlighting her non-partisan achievements and international standing.
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Polgar's Response
Polgar expressed gratitude for the offer but ultimately turned it down.
"I consider it an honour of my life to be invited by the initiators to the position of President of the Republic, and I am extremely grateful for it," she said.
"However, I do not feel strong enough to take on the historical responsibility of uniting a divided nation, so I cannot accept the invitation."
She added that she would support a new, independent president in every possible way.
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Magyar had praised Polgar's career, noting her 26-year run atop the women's world chess rankings, five Chess Olympiad titles, and recent election to Christ's College at the University of Cambridge.
"Our country needs unity, peace, and a president every Hungarian can be proud of," Magyar said.
"Judit Polgár, who was nominated today for President of the Republic by respected figures in Hungarian public life, is such a person."
The prime minister emphasized that Polgar's recognition is due to her talent and integrity, not political affiliations.
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The nomination process remains open as the government seeks an independent candidate for the presidency during the constitutional transition.
