hinnaswamy Stadium cleared to host RCB’s IPL 2026 matches:Karnataka Dy CM confirms cabinet approval; tournament begins on Mar 26

After months of uncertainty, the Karnataka government has finally allowed the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru to host matches for the upcoming IPL 2026 season. The decision brings relief to fans and the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) franchise, who were unsure about their home venue for the new season. The stadium had not hosted any competitive cricket since a tragic stampede during RCB’s victory parade in June 2025, following their first-ever IPL title win. Due to safety concerns, several major matches, including games from the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup, were moved at the last moment. Now, with the government giving the green signal, cricket is set to return to one of India’s most iconic grounds. However, strict safety rules and new measures will be put in place to ensure such incidents do not happen again. Karnataka government’s official announcement Karnataka’s Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar confirmed the decision on social media. He said, “In the interest of the sport and its fans, the Cabinet today has taken an important decision to permit the conduct of IPL matches at Chinnaswamy Stadium, while keeping public safety paramount,” He further added, “The recommendations of the Justice John Michael D’Cunha Report will be implemented, with strict adherence to norms on ticketing, crowd regulation, and stadium access. With responsibility and accountability, we move forward.” The government has made it clear that public safety will be the top priority while allowing matches at the stadium. Safety concerns and new measures The M Chinnaswamy Stadium was declared unsafe after the stampede incident in June 2025. Since then, it has remained closed for major cricket events. The delay created doubts over whether it would be ready in time for IPL 2026. RCB had even started exploring alternative venues. Reports suggested that the franchise had written to Mumbai Indians seeking permission to use the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai as a backup option. To improve safety, RCB proposed installing AI-enabled surveillance cameras at Chinnaswamy Stadium. These advanced systems are expected to help in better crowd management and smoother entry and exit for fans. Final call lies with RCB Although the state government has approved the stadium for IPL matches, the final decision now rests with RCB. The franchise must decide whether to continue playing their home matches at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium or shift to another venue. As defending champions, RCB also have the right to host the next IPL final, as per league rules. This makes the choice of venue even more important for the franchise.