The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), fresh off their maiden Indian Premier League (IPL) title win in 2025, are reportedly facing a dramatic home-ground change for the 2026 season. Their traditional base, the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, could be sidelined as their venue, with the MCA Stadium in Gahunje (Pune) being shortlisted as a provisional alternative.
Why this shift is being considered
The impetus for the venue change stems from the tragic stampede that occurred outside the Chinnaswamy Stadium on 4 June 2025 during RCB’s victory parade, following their IPL triumph. Eleven people lost their lives and dozens were injured.
In the aftermath, a special commission declared the stadium “unsuitable and unsafe for mass gatherings” until safety upgrades and renovations are completed.
As per reports, the Maharashtra Cricket Association (MCA) has proposed hosting RCB’s home fixtures at the MCA Stadium in Pune, citing its larger capacity (over 42,000) and infrastructure.
MCA secretary Kamlesh Pisal said the discussions are preliminary and no formal agreement has yet been reached.
Implications for RCB and fans
For RCB, shifting base means playing away from their traditional stronghold of Bengaluru — a city with ardent supporters who filled the Chinnaswamy and turned it into a fortress over the years.
For fans, this could mean altered travel plans, fewer home-matches in Bengaluru, and potentially a different atmosphere in Pune.
From a logistics viewpoint, Pune offers good accommodation, connectivity and stadium infrastructure — reasons cited by MCA for being “ideal”.
What remains uncertain
The decision has not been finalised; RCB and relevant authorities still need to iron out technical and contractual issues.
Whether the Chinnaswamy Stadium will undergo renovation, regain hosting rights in future, or remain out for the 2026 season and beyond.
The fate of fan loyalty, ticketing, and home-fan advantage if matches shift to Pune.
Why this matters in broader IPL context
A home-ground shift for a major franchise such as RCB is significant:
It affects scheduling, broadcast logistics and stadium operations.
It demonstrates the growing emphasis on safety and infrastructure in large spectator events.
It shows how a tragic event (the stampede) can trigger long-term venue re-evaluations.
Timeline recap
June 4 2025: Stampede outside Chinnaswamy during RCB’s parade.
November 12 2025: Reports emerge that RCB may play home matches at MCA in Pune for IPL 2026.
Late 2025 / December: Decision expected post-IPL 2026 player auction according to MCA.
SEO & Trending Notes
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FAQ Section
Q1: Why might RCB not play at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in 2026?
Due to the tragic stampede in June 2025 which resulted in fatalities and the stadium being declared unsafe for large gatherings.
Q2: Which stadium is being considered as RCB’s interim home?
The Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Gahunje (Pune) is being discussed as the alternative venue for IPL 2026.
Q3: Has the decision been finalised?
No — discussions are ongoing and no formal agreement has been reached yet.
Q4: How does this affect fans in Bengaluru?
Fans may have fewer home matches in Bengaluru, and would need to travel to Pune or elsewhere. It may also impact fan engagement and atmosphere.
Q5: When is a final decision expected?
Reports suggest a decision could come after the IPL 2026 player auction, likely late in the year.
Published on : 12TH November
Published by : SARANYA
Source Credit ;HT Sports Desk
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