After finally lifting the IPL trophy in 2025, ending a 17-year wait, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) were all set to celebrate their title defence at their beloved home ground, the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. But will fans in Bengaluru get to see their champions in action next season (2026)? Reports suggest otherwise.
Chinnaswamy Declared Unfit Venue
Following the tragic June stampede during RCB’s victory parade, which claimed several lives, the stadium has been declared unfit to host major events. According to the report, discussions are underway to relocate RCB’s home matches to the Maharashtra Cricket Association (MCA) Stadium in Pune.
MCA Secretary Kamlesh Pai confirmed that talks are in progress, awaiting technical clearance. If finalised, it would mark the first time RCB plays an entire IPL season away from Bengaluru, barring the 2009 and COVID-era editions.
