Hungarian Opposition Leader Warns of Sex Tape Blackmail

Péter Magyar claims Orban supporters plan to release intimate recording to discredit him ahead of elections

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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Péter Magyar, the main challenger to Hungarian leader Viktor Orban in the upcoming elections, has accused Orban supporters of planning to release a secretly recorded video of him in an intimate situation with a former partner. Magyar, who heads the center-right Tisza party, said he believes the pro-government figures are trying to blackmail and discredit him ahead of the April parliamentary elections.

Why it matters

This case highlights the growing concerns about the use of personal scandals and 'kompromat' tactics in Eastern European politics, where incumbent leaders have been accused of cracking down on civil liberties and the rule of law. The outcome of the Hungarian elections could have significant implications for the country's relationship with the European Union.

The details

Magyar claims reporters have been sent a link showing a room with a hidden camera, suggesting Orban supporters plan to release the recording. He said the video was likely made with secret service equipment and could be falsified. Magyar said this is part of a 'Russian-style campaign' by Orban's Fidesz party to discredit him on the second anniversary of an interview in which he accused the government of corruption.

  • Magyar gave an explosive interview in February 2024 accusing Orban officials of corruption.
  • The alleged sex tape is planned to be released on the second anniversary of that interview, on February 11, 2026.

The players

Péter Magyar

The main challenger to Hungarian leader Viktor Orban in the upcoming elections, heading the center-right Tisza party. He is a former Orban ally who has accused the government of corruption and cracking down on civil liberties.

Viktor Orban

The current right-wing leader of Hungary, whose Fidesz party is accused of planning to release a secretly recorded video of Magyar in an intimate situation in order to discredit him ahead of the elections.

Donald Trump

The former U.S. President who has vocally backed Orban, a politician seen by many as undermining European unity and LGBT rights.

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What they’re saying

“This is obviously a symbolic day for Fidesz as well, because it was then that their seemingly unshakeable power began to crumble. They are preparing for it. Not in the way normal people would, by facing up to it and apologizing, but rather with blackmail and threats.”

— Péter Magyar, Opposition Leader (Newsweek)

“Bring it on, falsify whatever you want, I will not give in to blackmail or threats. Neither from the Hungarian political-economic mafia, nor from the members of the international network that supports them.”

— Péter Magyar, Opposition Leader (Newsweek)

“Yes, I am a 45-year-old man, and I have a sex life. With an adult partner. I have three minor children, whom this despicable 'family-friendly' authority obviously disregards.”

— Péter Magyar, Opposition Leader (Newsweek)

What’s next

The outcome of the Hungarian parliamentary elections in April 2026 will be crucial in determining the country's future direction and its relationship with the European Union.

The takeaway

This case highlights the growing concerns about the use of personal scandals and 'kompromat' tactics in Eastern European politics, where incumbent leaders have been accused of cracking down on civil liberties and the rule of law. The upcoming Hungarian elections could have significant implications for the country's democratic institutions and its place within the European Union.