Athletes Behaving Badly

Conclusion: Impact of 1956 Revolution & Mass Defections on Punishments

In contrast to Szűcs, and even Kádas, Benedek and Gyarmati got off easy. The difference in their punishments, especially compared to the Kádas, can be explained by the fact that they were still leading members of the Hungarian sport community. Benedek was no longer at the height of his career. But the state still wanted him to share his knowledge, and to contribute to their sport diplomacy goals. He could do this by coaching the younger generation of pentathletes. It is important to note that the 1960s ended up being the peak years of Hungarian pentathlon. As for Gyarmati, he was one of Hungarian biggest sport stars throughout the entire period of socialist rule. The state risked alienating the public even more by excluding him from Hungarian sport, especially considering this occurred after the biggest showing of discontent (and outright rage) at the regime. By bringing Gyarmati back into the fold, Hungarian sport continued to achieve great success with its men's water polo team. All parties benefitted in this situation.

Ultimately, the difference in the punishments that Szűcs, Kádas, Bender and Gyarmati each received illustrates a real shift in tactics on behalf of the state, and the sport leadership. After 1956, it became imperative for the Hungarian socialist state to repair its image, and regain the public's trust - or at least their passive acceptance of the status quo. Using sport stars like Benedek and Gyarmati enabled the state to do this, and to continue proving the worth of the socialist sport system vis-a-vis the rest of the Eastern bloc and the West. In the eyes of the sport leadership, giving these men softer punishments most likely seemed a fair trade-off.
 

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