RCB to Play IPL 2026 Home Matches at Chinnaswamy Stadium After Government Clearance
Bengaluru’s M. Chinnaswamy Stadium has been cleared by the Karnataka government to host Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) matches in the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL) season, resolving uncertainty following a tragic stampede during celebrations after RCB’s 2025 IPL title win . The decision comes after a period where RCB sought alternative home venues.
Background and Previous Challenges
The M. Chinnaswamy Stadium faced regulatory uncertainty after 11 lives were lost in a stampede during celebrations following RCB’s IPL title triumph in June 2025 . This led RCB to explore temporary home grounds, initially considering the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai. However, Mumbai Indians resisted this move, as IPL rules require a No Objection Certificate from the local franchise to conduct matches within their territory . Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium in Raipur was also considered as an alternative .
Government Clearance and Stadium Preparations
Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar confirmed on Thursday that the state government’s cabinet had decided to allow RCB to use the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium as their home venue . Despite this clearance, the stadium’s status remained uncertain due to ongoing infrastructure upgrades and discussions between RCB, the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA), and the state government .
The M Chinnaswamy Stadium has been undergoing infrastructure upgrades following recommendations from authorities . An expert committee will inspect the stadium on March 13, 2026, and conduct a full-scale mock demonstration of match-day arrangements to assess its preparedness .
IPL 2026 Schedule and Venue Details
RCB is scheduled to host five home games at the Chinnaswamy Stadium in the 2026 IPL season . The opening game of the season will be played on March 28 at the Chinnaswamy Stadium, featuring RCB and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) . The second game of the opening weekend will be between Mumbai Indians and Kolkata Knight Riders at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.
Due to upcoming elections in several states, the IPL 2026 schedule will be released in two phases. The first phase, comprising 20 matches, has been announced, with all ten teams playing four games each .
RCB will also play two matches in Raipur, while Punjab Kings will host three matches in Dharamsala .