The Chinnaswamy Stadium hasn't hosted a competitive match since the tragic stampede incident last year.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) on Thursday (January 12) received clearance from the Karnataka government to stage their IPL 2026 home matches at the Chinnaswamy Stadium.
“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," Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar wrote on X.
“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," he added.
After RCB clinched their maiden IPL title win last year, celebrations in Bengaluru became hectic when a stampede broke out outside the Chinnaswamy Stadium. The incident sparked safety concerns and prompted speculation over whether the franchise would hold its IPL 2026 home games at the iconic venue.
The stadium's standing was also impacted by the tragic stampede episode. It has not hosted a competitive cricket match since, with even marquee events like the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup fixtures relocated at the eleventh hour.
The defending IPL champions had explored alternative venues when there was uncertainty over the Chinnaswamy Stadium’s readiness. The franchise was believed to have written to Mumbai Indians regarding the possibility of using Navi Mumbai’s DY Patil Stadium as a temporary home.
Earlier, RCB had sent a proposal to the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) and formally requested the installation of 300 to 350 AI-enabled cameras at the Chinnaswamy Stadium to improve crowd management and fan safety.
Since the state government has given clearance to the venue, the final call rests with RCB on whether to return for their home fixtures.