11 fans lost their lives while several got injured during RCB's victory celebrations.
The unfortunate incident occurred when passionate fans were attending the celebration event for the RCB team lifting the IPL 2025 trophy.
The franchise and Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) issued a joint statement, expressing deep concern and heartfelt condolence after the stampede marred RCB's victory celebrations.
RCB were supposed to hold a victory parade from Vidhana Soudha to Chinnaswamy Stadium. Throughout the day, there was no clarity on whether the parade would took place, as initially, the Bengaluru traffic police denied permission, citing that there might be too much chaos.
As soon as the Rajat Patidar-led side reached Vidhana Soudha to meet the Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, a stampede was reported outside the Chinnaswamy Stadium. Thousands had assembled to celebrate RCB's maiden IPL title win. However, the police failed to manage the crowd, leading to a stampede-like situation outside the ground.
“RCB - KSCA expresses deep concern and heartfelt condolences regarding the unfortunate incident that occurred during the celebration organised by Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) at M Chinnaswamy Stadium earlier today,” the KSCA said in its statement.
“We are profoundly saddened by the tragic loss of life and the injuries sustained by individuals during this event. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families affected by this incident. We sincerely regret this tragedy and stand in solidarity with the bereaved families during this extremely difficult time,” the statement added.
On the other hand, RCB in their official statement, said that the franchise is deeply anguished by the unfortunate incident.
“We are deeply anguished by the unfortunate incidents that have come to light through media reports regarding public gatherings all over Bengaluru in anticipation of the team’s arrival this afternoon. The safety and well-being of everyone is of utmost importance to us," RCB stated.
“RCB mourns the tragic loss of lives and extend our heartfelt condolences to the affected families. Immediately upon being made aware of the situation, we promptly amended our program, and followed, the guidance and advice of the local administration. We urge all our supporters to please stay safe,” the statement added.
KSCA also announced INR 5 lakh for the families of the deceased. However, this gesture is not intended to replace the value of human life, the joint statement clarified.
“RCB - KSCA announces 5 lakhs to the families of those who have lost their loved ones. We hope this gesture can offer some support and solace in their time of grief,” the statement read.
“We want to emphasize that this compensation is not intended to determine or replace the value of human life, but rather to serve as a gesture of support and solidarity during such challenging times. Thank you for your understanding and support,” it added.
RCB’s victory celebrations inside the Chinnaswamy Stadium lasted for half an hour as Virat Kohli and Rajat Patidar delivered short speeches, thanking the crowd for their constant support. The entire squad then took a lap around the ground to rejoice the title win.
In the IPL 2025 Final, RCB defeated Punjab Kings (PBKS) by six runs at the Narendra Modi Stadium to end their 18-year long wait for the elusive title win.