IPL 2026: RCB Pays Tribute to Stampede Victims with Grand Homage

Ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season, the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) franchise fulfilled a promise it had made on March 28. The Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) paid tribute to the 11 fans who lost their lives in the tragic stampede incident during RCB’s victory celebrations on June 4, 2025. In their memory, a dedicated memorial was set up near the entrance of the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. To honor the victims, RCB players took the field wearing black armbands during the match held on the same day.

Remembering the immense love shown by those 11 fans towards the team, the RCB franchise took several meaningful initiatives. The management decided to keep 11 seats vacant at the stadium for every match played by RCB this season as a mark of respect. Additionally, during recent practice sessions, players were seen wearing jerseys with the number 11 to express their solidarity and condolences.

Not only the players but also a large number of fans visited the memorial set up at the stadium premises to pay their respects to the deceased. Through these gestures, the Royal Challengers Bengaluru franchise clearly demonstrated its respect and responsibility towards its supporters. RCB will begin its 2026 season with its first match against Sunrisers Hyderabad in Bengaluru.