New Delhi: Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) fans received disappointing news as reports suggest the team might not play its home matches at Bengaluru’s M Chinnaswamy Stadium in IPL 2026. Instead, venues like Raipur or Indore are being considered as alternative home grounds.
The decision comes after last year’s IPL championship celebrations at M Chinnaswamy Stadium turned tragic. During the victory festivities, an unexpected crowd surge led to a stampede, resulting in the deaths of 11 people. The number of fans inside and outside the stadium far exceeded expectations, causing chaos and serious safety concerns.
According to sources, RCB has shown little interest in hosting home matches in Bengaluru for the upcoming season and has not entered negotiations with the Karnataka State Cricket Association. Raipur, in particular, is emerging as the frontrunner among the potential alternatives.
Following the tragedy, the Karnataka government formed an investigative committee and suspended several high-ranking officials. RCB also announced financial assistance for the families of those who lost their lives. Furthermore, during the recent Vijay Hazare Trophy, a scheduled match at M Chinnaswamy Stadium involving Delhi and Andhra Pradesh was moved to the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence after Bengaluru Police denied permission due to concerns over large crowds, especially considering the presence of popular player Virat Kohli.
The events have raised serious questions about crowd management and safety at the stadium, influencing RCB’s decision to consider new venues for their home matches in IPL 2026.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.
