A new era on gambling regulation in Hungary?

With the opposition securing a supermajority in the general elections in April 2026, Hungary is poised for a significant political shift that could reshape fundamental structures established over the past sixteen years. Gambling regulations were a topic during the early weeks of the campaign by the opposition, particularly since land-based casino concessions and online gaming – including sports betting – have historically been controlled by the state and, more notably, by individuals close to government forces.

Given this background, it's highly likely that the new government will prioritize reforming Hungary’s gambling regulations. We can expect a comprehensive overhaul affecting both land-based and online sectors. That said, the big questions remain: What form will these changes take, and how will the government implement them effectively while respecting the principles of legality and the rule of law?

A useful lever for reform could be the outcomes of successful litigations brought by international operators over the past thirteen years, challenging the current system’s compliance with EU law. As recently as this year, Hungarian courts found the casino concession system – including provisions for online gaming – in breach of multiple fundamental EU laws and principles. There are also allegations of illegal state aid within the sector, which could pose risks for current operators as the new government reviews existing practices.

At this stage, information about the potential new regulatory framework aren’t yet publicly available and probably it is not even completed. However, based on the incoming government’s stated commitment to aligning with European standards, it’s likely that future policies will reflect broader European trends. If this vision materializes, the Hungarian gambling market could become open not only for new domestic but also for international operators, some of them have been fighting for that before national and EU courts for a decade. A strictly regulated but open and competitive market can benefit the state, the competitive operators and most importantly the Hungarian players.

You can read about the different gambling regimes in almost 50 jurisdictions in the Gambling Laws of the World Guide.