Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru are set for a major shift ahead of the IPL 2026 season, with the franchise likely to move away from their long-time home, the M Chinnaswamy Stadium. The decision comes in the aftermath of last year’s tragic stampede during the team’s title celebrations, an incident that claimed 11 lives and left several others injured.

The tragedy has left deep emotional scars, not just on fans, but also on players and the franchise itself. With safety concerns and lingering trauma still fresh, RCB appear reluctant to return to Bengaluru for their home fixtures in the upcoming season.

Why RCB are looking beyond Bengaluru for IPL 2026

According to reports, RCB have not held any discussions with the Karnataka State Cricket Association regarding hosting matches in Bengaluru next season. An NDTV report further suggests that the franchise is unlikely to play its home games at the Chinnaswamy Stadium in IPL 2026.

Raipur has emerged as the frontrunner to host RCB’s home matches, while Indore is also being considered as an alternative venue. The hesitation to return to Bengaluru reportedly extends beyond management, with several senior players, including Virat Kohli, said to be uncomfortable revisiting the venue so soon after last year’s tragedy.

In a telling development, Kohli’s Vijay Hazare Trophy match against Andhra Pradesh was shifted from the Chinnaswamy Stadium at the last moment in December, further fueling speculation about RCB’s future away from Bengaluru.

If confirmed, the move would mark a historic change for RCB, who have played at the iconic venue since the IPL’s inception. However, the franchise appears willing to sacrifice familiarity and tradition in favor of safety, stability, and peace of mind.

The stampede that changed everything

The turning point came during RCB’s IPL 2025 title celebrations at the Chinnaswamy Stadium. What began as a moment of historic joy quickly turned tragic when a stampede broke out due to crowd mismanagement.

Eleven people lost their lives, while several others sustained serious injuries. Subsequent reports revealed that RCB’s social media team had received alerts about the incident through Instagram comments but continued broadcasting the celebrations. The felicitation event was eventually cut short after players and officials were informed of the casualties.

The Karnataka government later acknowledged that standard operating procedures were not followed during the event. Compensation was announced for the families of the deceased, and medical expenses for the injured were covered. RCB also extended financial assistance to the affected families.

Despite these measures, the emotional toll remains profound, and the stadium, once synonymous with RCB’s identity, now carries the weight of grief.

High stakes as defending champions seek stability

The timing of this potential move is significant, as RCB head into IPL 2026 as defending champions for the first time in their history. Expectations will be sky-high, and any off-field instability could impact on-field performance.

Choosing a new home venue is about more than logistics; it is about creating a safe, positive environment for players and fans alike. While stepping away from Bengaluru is no easy decision, especially from a ground that has been Virat Kohli’s second home, the franchise appears focused on minimizing distractions and protecting its people.

As defending champions, RCB’s priority is clear: safeguard stability, rebuild trust, and concentrate fully on defending their crown.