NEW DELHI: Former Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) captain and veteran batter Virat Kohli has extended his condolences and solidarity to the families of those who lost their lives in the tragic stampede outside M Chinnaswamy Stadium during the team's victory celebrations on June 4.

The tragedy unfolded when an estimated crowd of nearly three lakh people thronged the M Chinnaswamy Stadium to witness RCB's maiden IPL trophy celebrations, resulting in a stampede that claimed 11 lives and left more than 50 injured.

"Nothing in life really prepares you for a heartbreak like June 4th. What should've been the happiest moment in our franchise's history... turned into something tragic. I've been thinking of and praying for the families of those we lost and for our fans who were injured. Your loss is part of our story now. Together, we will move forward with care, respect and responsibility," Kohli said in a post shared by RCB on social media platform X.

Following the tragedy, RCB announced last month that it would provide Rs 25 lakh each as financial aid to the families of the deceased. The franchise, along with its fans and the wider cricketing fraternity, mourned the loss and expressed solidarity with the victims' families.

In a statement, the franchise conveyed its grief over the tragedy and pledged ongoing support to the bereaved families through its new initiative, RCB CARES.

"Our hearts broke on June 4, 2025. We lost eleven members of the RCB family. They were part of us. Part of what makes our city, our community & our team unique. Their absence will echo in the memories of each one of us," the statement read.

RCB further stated that the Rs 25 lakh aid is not just financial support, but also a "promise of compassion, unity, and ongoing care" for the affected families. RCB outlined the framework of RCB Cares on Monday, its long- term commitment to fans. The programme focuses on supporting, empowering, and elevating the 12th Man Army through meaningful actions.