RCB Likely to Skip Bengaluru for IPL 2026 After Fatal Stadium Stampede

The M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, once home to Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) IPL matches, may no longer host the team, following last year’s tragic trophy celebration that left 11 dead and many injured. The incident occurred after RCB’s IPL 2025 final victory, when a poorly planned event ended in a stampede, casting a shadow over the franchise and the venue.

According to NDTV, RCB has not held any talks with the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) about hosting IPL 2026 matches in Bengaluru. Raipur is reportedly the leading contender for RCB’s home games, with Indore also under consideration. Even Virat Kohli’s Vijay Hazare Trophy match against Andhra Pradesh in December was shifted at the last moment due to the lingering impact of the tragedy.

The stampede was exacerbated by delayed response: RCB’s social media team reportedly ignored live warnings via Instagram comments, continuing the broadcast until officials were formally alerted. The Karnataka government acknowledged lapses in safety protocol and announced compensation for the victims, while RCB pledged additional support for the deceased and injured.

The trauma from the incident has reportedly influenced RCB’s reluctance to return to Bengaluru, as players and officials seek to move past the painful memory.

Meanwhile, Rajasthan Royals have also shifted their home venue to Pune after disputes with the Rajasthan Cricket Association, intensified by unsubstantiated match-fixing allegations that the franchise denied.