IPL 2026: RCB announces 11-seat tribute for stampede victims across all games

Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) has planned a special tribute for fans who lost their lives in a tragic stampede last year. During the upcoming IPL 2026 season, players will wear jersey number 11 during practice sessions on match days. This number has been chosen to honour the 11 fans who passed away.

When did the stampede happen?

The stampede happened on June 4 outside M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, when a huge crowd gathered to celebrate RCB’s maiden IPL title win. The situation turned chaotic, leading to a stampede that claimed lives. The franchise faced heavy criticism at the time over how the celebrations were managed, as massive crowds had gathered without proper security arrangements.

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Will RCB players wear the 11-number jersey during matches?

RCB CEO Rajesh Menon said that while players won’t wear number 11 during the actual matches, they will wear it during pre-match practice as a mark of respect. He also added that the team will wear black armbands on the day to remember the victims.

In addition, the franchise is planning to permanently reserve 11 seats at the stadium. These seats will serve as a lasting tribute to the fans who lost their lives.

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When will RCB start their IPL campaign?

RCB will start their IPL 2026 campaign on March 28 against Sunrisers Hyderabad. Out of their home games this season, five will be played in Bengaluru, while the remaining two matches will take place at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Cricket Stadium in Raipur.

How much RCB invested at Chinnaswamy for crowd management?

Notably, RCB CEO Rajesh Menon also said that the Bengaluru-based franchise has invested nearly Rs seven crore to enhance the crowd management infrastructure in and around the M Chinnaswamy Stadium. 

"We have invested approximately Rs 7 crore towards enhancing crowd management infrastructure, including multiple baggage scanners and command centres," Menon said in the pre-season press meet here.

Why did RCB cancel the season 'Unbox' event?

He said the RCB will ensure a safe and seamless match-day experience for fans at the Stadium, even though the hugely popular pre-season 'Unbox' event has been cancelled.