The Dynasty (2025) Timeline Explained – Every Event in Order

The 1990s Foundations

The precursors to the enrichment of István Tiborcz reach back as early as the 1990s. The film traces how the foundations of the business network that would later benefit the circle around the Orbán family were laid during this period. This early era set the stage for the developments later documented by investigative journalists.

When

1990s

Where

Hungary

The Role of Orbán and Simicska

The documentary explores the role that Viktor Orbán and Lajos Simicska played in Tiborcz's rise. Their influence and political connections are presented as key precursors to the wealth accumulation. The film examines how these relationships shaped the business opportunities that followed.

Where

Hungary

The Fidesz Headquarters Case

Journalist Eva Vajda recounts the so-called Fidesz headquarters case in the film. The party received real estate which it immediately sold to relatives in order to establish intransparent businesses. This case is presented as a key example of the practices behind the enrichment.

Where

Hungary

Unlawful EU Public Procurements

The film discusses public procurements that European Union inspectors considered to be severely unlawful. These contracts played a significant role in Tiborcz's enrichment. The inspectors' findings are highlighted as central evidence in the journalists' reporting.

Where

Hungary

The Kisfaludy Tourist Development Program

The Kisfaludy tourist development program is examined as another element in the film. It is presented as part of the pattern of public funds flowing toward connected businesses. The program is discussed alongside the other procurement scandals surrounding Tiborcz.

Where

Hungary

A Joint Investigation by Four Newsrooms

Journalists from Direkt36, Válasz Online, Telex, and Forbes come together to discuss the enrichment of István Tiborcz. Their collaborative reporting forms the backbone of the documentary. Each outlet contributes findings gathered through years of investigative work.

Opening of Botaniq Budai Klub

Tiborcz's exclusive establishment, the Botaniq Budai Klub, opened its doors in 2023. The elite club quickly became a symbol of the closed inner circles surrounding Hungary's political elite. Its opening drew the attention of journalists seeking to understand the world behind it.

When

2023

Where

Budapest, Hungary

Széchenyi's Secret Recording

Hungarian-American journalist Bence X. Széchenyi, a descendant of nobleman and statesman Ferenc Széchényi, secretly recorded his attempt to apply for admission to the club. Posing as a prospective member, he captured the club's inner workings on camera. His recordings form the centerpiece of the film's final act.

When

2023

Where

Botaniq Budai Klub, Budapest

A Tour Inside the Elite Club

During his visit, a staff member showed Széchenyi around the club's facilities. The tour offered a rare glimpse into an exclusive world normally hidden from outsiders. The staff member shared candid details about the club's operations during the walkthrough.

Where

Botaniq Budai Klub, Budapest

Secrets Behind Closed Doors

The staff member revealed that the club has around 170 members and that the point of the club is that 'whatever happens here stays here'. Most strikingly, he admitted that illegal gambling was taking place on the premises. These revelations were all captured on Széchenyi's secret recordings.

Where

Botaniq Budai Klub, Budapest

Steep Membership Fees

The admission process revealed the steep financial barriers to entering Tiborcz's circle. The entrance fee to the club was €4000, with an additional membership fee of €8000 per year. These sums underscore the exclusivity of the club's membership.

Where

Botaniq Budai Klub, Budapest

'Ridiculously High' Prices

Széchenyi compared the club's fees with other membership clubs that he had visited. He concluded that the prices at Botaniq Budai Klub were 'ridiculously high' by comparison. The observation highlights the insular wealth of the clientele the club targets.

Where

Botaniq Budai Klub, Budapest

The Club Owner's Denial

The end of the film presents the reply from the club's owner. In it, they denied that illegal gambling was taking place at the club. The denial stands in direct contradiction to the statements captured in Széchenyi's secret recordings.

Tiborcz's Response

The film closes with the reply of István Tiborcz himself. He stated that his success is 'mainly due to the fact that I work with a good team of excellent managers with whom we make good business decisions'. His statement offers no direct answer to the specific allegations raised in the documentary.