Puskas: The Hungarian Legend

I became interested in Ferenc Puskas after reading The Oxford Handbook of Sports History. I was curious about why Puskas is such a celebrated figure in Hungary today-especially given that he lived most of his adult life outside of Hungary. There are numerous memorials throughout Hungary to honor Puskas: Hungary’s national football stadium, a football academy, a school, and a sports bar are named after him; a giant bronze statue was erected in Zalsazabar, where he was born; and his tomb at St. Stephens Basilica is listed as one of the top things to do in Hungary.

I have read Puskas’ autobiography as well as other books on Puskas and the Cold War era. Right now, I’m reading Jonathan Wilson’s The Names Heard Long Ago.