Budapesti AK
Introduction
Budapesti Atlétikai Klub, commonly known as BAK, is a historic Hungarian football club based in Budapest. Established in 1900, the club has a rich history marked by periods of success and challenges. Competing in the BLSZ III, the sixth tier of Hungarian football, BAK is a testament to the enduring spirit of local sports enthusiasts and community engagement in football.
History of Budapesti AK
The origins of Budapesti AK can be traced back to 1900 when a group of athletes decided to leave their previous club, MTK Budapest, due to the absence of a football section there. This decision led to the formation of BAK, which made its debut in the 1906–07 season of the Hungarian League, finishing an impressive fourth place in its inaugural season. The club quickly established itself within the top echelons of Hungarian football, remaining in the first division for 15 consecutive years.
However, BAK faced challenges as it was relegated in 1921. Despite this setback, the club continued to compete at various levels until it ultimately folded in 1947. The reasons for its dissolution were multifaceted, including financial struggles and competition from other clubs that overshadowed BAK’s presence in Hungarian football.
The Reforming of the Club
Decades passed before Budapesti AK was reformed ahead of the 2018/19 season. Inspired by the legacy of one of its notable former players, Ernő Egri Erbstein, who played for BAK from 1916 to 1924, a group of local enthusiasts took on the challenge to revive the club. Under the leadership of club president Bertalan Molnar, they merged with a local team called Respect and assumed their place in BLSZ III.
This rebirth marked a new chapter in BAK’s history, allowing it to reconnect with its roots while fostering community involvement and local talent development. The re-establishment also included a modern logo featuring a ram’s head—an homage to the meaning of ‘bak’ in Hungarian—and symbolizing strength and resilience.
Friendships and International Relations
After its reformation, Budapesti AK sought to build bridges beyond Hungary by rekindling friendships with international teams. In November 2018, BAK announced a renewed relationship with Corinthian-Casuals FC, an amateur English club that shares similar values and a historical connection dating back to when the original Corinthian Football Club visited Budapest for friendly matches in 1904.
This partnership sparked initiatives such as the creation of the Corinthian Cup—a trophy inspired by one presented to amateur clubs by Corinthian FC in 1905. The friendship culminated in an international competition called the Egri Erbstein Tournament, aimed at inviting grassroots football clubs from around the world. The inaugural tournament was held at Szőnyi úti Stadion in June 2019, featuring teams including BAK and Corinthian-Casuals among others.
Name Changes Throughout History
The identity of Budapesti AK has evolved over time through various name changes reflecting its mergers and transformations:
- 1900–1910: Budapesti Athletikai Klub
- 1910: Merger with Csepeli Athletikai Club
- 1910–1911: Budapest-Csepeli Athletikai Klub
- 1911–1926: Budapesti Atlétikai Klub
- 1920: Merger with Nemzeti Torna Club
- 1926–1928: Budapesti Atlétikai Klub FC
- 1928 onwards: Budapesti Atlétikai Klub Testgyakorlók Köre
- 2018: Re-established as Budapesti Atlétikai Klub
Honours and Achievements
Despite the ups and downs throughout its long history, Budapesti AK has achieved notable successes:
- Nemzeti Bajnokság II: Winners (1): 1905
- Hungarian Cup: Runner-up (1): 1912–13
These achievements illustrate BAK’s competitive spirit during its peak years and contribute to its legacy within Hungarian football.
Conclusion
Budapesti Atlétikai Klub stands as a symbol of resilience and passion for football within Hungary. From its founding days over a century ago to its recent reformation and engagement with international partners, BAK continues to inspire local communities. The club not only embraces its rich history but also looks toward a bright future filled with opportunities for growth and collaboration in grassroots football. As it competes in lower leagues and fosters friendships with like-minded clubs worldwide, Budapesti AK remains dedicated to promoting sport as a means of unity and cultural exchange.
Artykuł sporządzony na podstawie: Wikipedia (EN).