IPL 2026 Final Venue Shift: Karnataka Minister Clarifies Reasons

Karnataka's Home Minister G Parameshwara has clarified that the decision to move the IPL 2026 final from Bengaluru to Ahmedabad was not due to security concerns but rather commercial viability linked to stadium capacity. He emphasized that no complaints regarding security were raised by local authorities or the IPL. The minister also noted that the limited seating at Chinnaswamy Stadium, which accommodates only 33,000 spectators, played a significant role in the decision. The Karnataka State Cricket Association is awaiting official communication regarding the venue change, while the revised playoff schedule has been announced, with the final set for May 31 in Ahmedabad.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 7, 2026, 17:41 IST

Karnataka Home Minister Addresses IPL Venue Change

On Thursday, G Parameshwara, the Home Minister of Karnataka, clarified that security issues were not the driving factor behind the relocation of the IPL 2026 final from Bengaluru. He indicated that the decision was primarily influenced by commercial factors related to the stadium's seating capacity. Initially, Bengaluru's M Chinnaswamy Stadium was set to host the final on May 31, but the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) later moved the event to the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

No Security Concerns Raised

Parameshwara emphasized that there were no security concerns raised by the police, IPL officials, or the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). He stated, "There have been no complaints regarding security. Five matches have already taken place here, so security is not an issue. Neither the IPL authorities, RCB, nor the police have raised any complaints."

Commercial Viability Issues

The minister mentioned that unofficial sources indicated the limited seating capacity of Chinnaswamy Stadium might have influenced the decision. He explained, "The stadium accommodates only 33,000 spectators, with 7,000-8,000 seats reserved for sponsors and others. This leaves approximately 25,000 seats available, which may not be commercially viable."

Karnataka State Cricket Association's Response

Parameshwara noted that the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) had been in contact with the event organizers, but ultimately, the final was not awarded to Bengaluru. He added, "Typically, when a team wins, the opening and final matches are held at their home ground in the next season. However, it seems they assessed all factors and made an earlier decision."

BCCI's Official Statement

On Wednesday, the IPL released a statement explaining that Bengaluru was initially chosen to host the final. However, due to certain requirements from local authorities that exceeded BCCI's established guidelines, the venue was changed.

Awaiting Official Communication from KSCA

Vinay Mruthyunjaya, a spokesperson for KSCA, mentioned that the association had not received any formal communication regarding the venue change. He stated, "There has been no official information explaining why the matches are not being held at Chinnaswamy Stadium. We currently lack official details, but we respect BCCI's decision."

Updated Playoff Schedule

According to the revised playoff schedule, Qualifier 1 will take place at HPCA Stadium in Dharamsala on May 26, followed by the Eliminator and Qualifier 2 in Mullanpur on May 27 and 29, respectively, culminating in the final in Ahmedabad on May 31.