RCB Returns to Chinnaswamy for IPL 2026 Home Matches

Royal Challengers Bengaluru, the defending champions of the Indian Premier League, confirmed on Tuesday that they will return to the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru for most of their home matches in the 2026 season, marking a significant homecoming nearly a year after a tragic stampede marred their title celebrations.

The franchise, which clinched its maiden IPL title in 2025, announced plans to play five league-stage home games at the iconic venue, known for its vibrant atmosphere and high-scoring pitches. Two additional home fixtures will take place at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium in Raipur, expanding the team's reach to fans in central India. Beyond the league matches, Chinnaswamy has been approved to host the IPL 2026 opening ceremony, playoffs, and final, positioning Bengaluru as the epicenter of the tournament.

The announcement ends months of uncertainty following a deadly stampede on June 4, 2025, outside the stadium. The incident occurred during a victory parade and fan engagement event celebrating RCB's IPL triumph, drawing an estimated 250,000 supporters. Overcrowding led to chaos near MG Road and Cubbon Road as fans rushed to enter the...