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People vote at a polling station during the Hungarian parliamentary election in Budapest, Hungary, April 12, 2026.
People vote at a polling station during the Hungarian parliamentary election in Budapest on April 12, 2026. © Elisabeth Mandl, Reuters

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban faces his biggest challenge on Sunday as the country votes in crucial elections that could hand victory to his centre-right rival Peter Magyar. Orban, an ally of US President Donald Trump and one of the European Union’s biggest antagonists, has run an aggressive campaign, claiming that a defeat would drag his country into war alongside Ukraine. Follow our liveblog for all the latest developments.

What you need to know

  • Hungarians are voting this Sunday to elect a new parliament.
  • Having been in power for over fifteen years, Primer Minister Viktor Orban is seeking re-election in an election that is being closely watched across Europe.
  • His main opponent is Peter Magyar, who has established himself as the face of the opposition.
  • The campaign has been marked by high tensions surrounding the European Union, the war in Ukraine and relations with Russia.
  • The results of this election could influence Hungary’s political direction and its relations with European capitals.

Welcome to the FRANCE 24 liveblog covering the Hungarian elections.

(FRANCE 24 with AFP, Reuters and AP)