Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru will play five of their home matches at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium and two fixtures at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium in the upcoming edition of the Indian Premier League, the franchise confirmed on Tuesday.
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The announcement puts to rest uncertainty surrounding the Bengaluru venue following the stampede that claimed 11 lives during celebrations after RCB’s maiden IPL title triumph in 2025. Since the tragic incident, the stadium has not hosted any major domestic tournaments, including the Ranji Trophy, Vijay Hazare Trophy or the Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20.
In a statement, RCB said extensive coordination with authorities helped facilitate the return of matches to their traditional home.
“This significant development comes after months of hard work and close coordination across all concerned authorities with a common goal of bringing the games back to our home ground for the fans,” the franchise said.
RCB thanked the Government of Karnataka, the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) and the Karnataka Police for their support in strengthening infrastructure and safety measures ahead of the IPL season.
“The collective efforts to ramp up infrastructure and safety measures in time for the IPL season have ensured that the defending champions will play the majority of their home games at their home ground,” the statement added.
The two fixtures in Raipur, the franchise clarified, are being staged as part of a prior commitment.
RCB CEO Rajesh Menon said playing at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium holds special significance for the team and its supporters.
“The M. Chinnaswamy Stadium is more than just our home ground — it is where our identity as a team truly comes alive,” Menon said. “The energy our fans bring to Bengaluru has always been a driving force for our players.”
He added that after completing the required permissions and due process, the franchise was pleased to confirm five matches in Bengaluru.
Former India cricketer and KSCA president Venkatesh Prasad described the development as a landmark moment.
“For me personally, it’s a huge achievement — probably bigger than my five-wicket haul against England at Lord’s,” said Prasad, referring to his 5/76 in 1996.
He further revealed that Bengaluru will host not only the IPL opener and opening ceremony but also a playoff and the final.
“The biggest news is that the final of the IPL will also be played in Bengaluru,” he added.
