Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) batter Virat Kohli opened up about the stampede that took place outside the Chinnaswamy Stadium on June 4. Kohli stated that it affected both him and everyone associated with the Royal Challengers Bengaluru, adding that their loss has become a part of the team’s story.
Bengaluru finally won their first-ever IPL title by defeating Punjab Kings (PBKS) in the final match in Ahmedabad. However, the joy was marred by tragedy the following day during the team’s victory celebrations outside the M Chinnaswamy Stadium. The incident claimed 11 lives and left many fans injured.
Happiest Moment Turned Tragic – Virat Kohli Breaks Silence on Stampede Tragedy
RCB shared Virat Kohli’s reaction to the tragedy via the social media platform X. The former RCB captain paid tribute to the fans who lost their lives or were injured in the stampede. He also expressed the heartbreak of what should have been a historic celebration.
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“Nothing in life really prepares you for a heartbreak like June 4th. What should’ve been the happiest moment in our franchise’s history… turned into something tragic. I’ve been thinking of and praying for the families of those we lost… and for our fans who were injured. Your loss is part of our story now. Together, we will move forward with care, respect and responsibility,” Virat Kohli wrote.
RCB Stampede at M Chinnaswamy Stadium Killed 11
The stampede occurred outside the M Chinnaswamy Stadium when a crowd reportedly exceeding two lakh people overwhelmed the stadium, which has a capacity of just 32,000. The overcrowding led to 11 deaths, all under 40, and left at least 50 others injured.
In response, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah announced Rs 10 lakh compensation for the families of the deceased, and RCB pledged an equal amount to each of the 11 families as a gesture of respect and solidarity.
The tragedy has put RCB’s future in IPL 2026 in jeopardy. Notably, the Justice Cunha Commission, which investigated the incident, concluded that the stadium’s design and structure are unsafe for large gatherings. The report also held RCB, DNA Entertainment, and the KSCA responsible for the stampede.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru Ended their Social Media Silence
A few days ago, Royal Challengers Bengaluru ended their social media silence and announced Rs 25 lakh compensation for each family of the victims.
The franchise also revealed plans to set up a memorial in Bengaluru to honour the fans and introduced a six-point manifesto aimed at preventing similar incidents in the future.
In the wake of the stampede, several cricket events have been relocated. The Women’s World Cup matches were shifted from Bengaluru to Navi Mumbai, and the local Maharaja T20 Trophy moved to Mysuru.
The Karnataka government has held RCB, event management firm DNA Entertainment Networks, and the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) responsible for the incident.
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