Will IPL 2026 be held at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru? Karnataka's deputy CM's gives massive statement

Royal Challengers Bengaluru supporters can finally breathe easy. After weeks of uncertainty, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar has confirmed that the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium will continue to host RCB’s home matches in the 2026 edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL). His assurance has brought a wave of relief to fans who feared the franchise might be forced to relocate next season.

Concerns began circulating after the tragic crowd incident outside the stadium last year raised questions about infrastructure and public safety. However, Shivakumar’s recent statement has set the record straight. 

He emphasized that the government is committed to addressing all safety requirements, ensuring that the stadium meets the necessary standards. More importantly, he made it clear that Bengaluru will not lose its IPL identity, Chinnaswamy remains RCB’s home.

“This is a matter of respect for the state of Karnataka and Bengaluru. We will take steps to ensure that the next IPL matches are held here. I am a cricket fan. We will take care that the recent disaster does not happen again and ensure that the stadium’s dignity remains. The stadium will be developed by managing the crowd within the legal framework. In addition, we will build a bigger stadium as an alternative," Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar was quoted as saying by News18.

Why RCB’s home venue faced risk of ban in IPL 2026?

The uncertainty around RCB’s future at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru, didn’t appear out of nowhere. The venue came under scrutiny after a tragic crowd crush incident outside the stadium last year after RCB won the trophy and a victory parade was held, which raised serious questions about safety standards and crowd management. With thousands of fans gathering for ticket sales, poor coordination and inadequate control measures led to chaos, injuries, and widespread criticism of how the situation was handled.

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Following the incident, multiple agencies called for a detailed investigation into the stadium’s infrastructure, emergency exits, and overall crowd-handling capacity. Reports suggested that unless the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) implemented the recommended upgrades, the ground might not receive clearance for major events, including IPL matches. 

Moreover, Bengaluru also lost the hosting rights in the Women's World Cup 2025 because of this issue. However, it will be interesting to see if the state government can do something before the start of the IPL 2026. 

Where to watch the IPL 2026 auction?

Cricket fans in India can watch the IPL 2026 mini auction on December 16 online on JioHotstar, via OTTplay Premium.

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