Speaking at a recent press conference, festival founder Károly Gerendai revealed that a new ownership structure for the event is currently being finalised.

Under the planned arrangement, 70% ownership will remain with the festival’s management, while the remaining 30% will be shared among key subcontractors and professional partners, each holding between 1–5%.

According to Gerendai, this shift allows the organising team to refocus on what has always made Sziget special – creating a truly enjoyable and “loveable” festival experience – rather than meeting the expectations of previous foreign owners.

Chief organiser Tamás Kádár expressed optimism about ticket sales, noting hopes to exceed last year’s figures, and added that the festival may also receive tourism-related support from Hungary’s new government.

Throwback Vibes & New Additions

The Day Zero programme is set to evoke the spirit of earlier Sziget editions, with headline performances by Faithless and Morcheeba, followed by a large-scale retro-style afterparty on the Revolut Stage, featuring popular Hungarian performers including György Korda.

Organisers also hinted at the introduction of a “Minus One Day”, although details of that programme will be announced later.

Developments at the Festival Site

Plans are in place to renovate the iconic K Bridge – the main entrance to Óbuda Island – with construction expected to begin after this year’s festival and completion targeted for 2027.

In terms of hospitality, a new initiative will see drinks priced 10% lower before 6pm, offering an added incentive for early arrivals.

Strong Line-Up & Hungarian Focus

As previously announced, this year’s line-up will include major international names such as Skepta, Skrillex, Bring Me the Horizon, Zara Larsson, and Florence + The Machine.

A dedicated stage curated by Budapest Park will spotlight Hungarian bands, while one of the electronic venues is also set for a revamp. The new space, named “Der Klub”, will be organised in collaboration with well-known local venues Turbina and Arzenál.

A Festival That Nearly Didn’t Happen

This year’s Sziget comes after a period of uncertainty. Previous owner Superstruct Entertainment – acquired in 2023 by the American investment firm KKR – decided to reduce its exposure in Hungary.

Gerendai then stepped forward to reacquire the festival, though the process required support from the Budapest General Assembly, particularly regarding a more favourable land-use agreement. Several votes failed to pass, raising doubts about the festival’s future.

At one point, it seemed Sziget might not go ahead at all. However, a breakthrough followed shortly after, when Péter Magyar announced that an agreement had been reached. According to Gerendai, both sides made compromises, ultimately securing the festival’s return in 2026.

With major acts confirmed and key developments underway, Sziget looks set to make a strong comeback this summer in Budapest.

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Sziget Festival

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