---
date: 2026-03-15
topic: Budapest Gambit — preparation as White
opening: Queen's Gambit
eco: A51-A52
status: resolved
---

## Question

As White after 1.d4 Nf6 2.c4, Black can play 2...e5 (Budapest Gambit). Should we prepare against it? What are the traps?

## Discussion

The Budapest Gambit (1.d4 Nf6 2.c4 e5) is rare at top level but very common below 1500 Elo. Black sacrifices a pawn for rapid piece activity. Two main sub-variations:

**Rubinstein Variation (3.dxe5 Ng4 4.Bf4)**: Main line. White defends e5 with the Bishop. After 4...Nc6 5.Nf3 Bb4+ 6.Nbd2 (not 6.Nc3 which allows doubled pawns), White has a slight but lasting advantage thanks to more space (c4 pawn).

**Fajarowicz Variation (3.dxe5 Ne4)**: Rare but full of traps. Black plays for tactical tricks with ...Bb4+ and ...Qf6 targeting f2/b2. Best response: 4.a3 (prevents Bb4+). Critical trap: if 4.Nf3?! d6 5.exd6 Bxd6 6.g3?? Nxf2! 7.Kxf2 Bxg3+ wins the Queen.

**Adler Variation (4.Nf3)**: Also playable for White but Black gets more counterplay.

## Actions Taken

- Added chapter "vs Budapest Gambit (1...Nf6 2.c4 e5) - TRAPS TO KNOW" to `pgn/repertoire_blancs_gambit_dame_annote.pgn`
- Covers Rubinstein (main), Fajarowicz (traps), Adler (alternative)
- Pushed to Lichess study ucjmuish (7 chapters total now)

## Key Takeaways

- 2.c4 is almost always correct after 1.d4 — the Budapest is the one "trap" to know
- Always play 3.dxe5 (take the pawn), then 4.Bf4 (Rubinstein) as default
- Against Fajarowicz (3...Ne4): play 4.a3 to prevent Bb4+ tricks
- Don't try to hold the e5 pawn at all costs — let Black take it back and play for positional advantage
