RCB Honors Fans with Memorial and Tribute Following Tragic Incident

In a heartfelt gesture, the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have paid tribute to the fans who tragically lost their lives in a stampede after their IPL title win. Former cricketer Venkatesh Prasad announced that a special prayer was held, and 11 seats will remain vacant at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium as a mark of respect. Additionally, a memorial has been installed to honor the deceased, and RCB players will wear jersey number 11 and black armbands during their upcoming matches. This initiative reflects the team's commitment to remembering their loyal supporters.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 25, 2026, 22:44 IST

Tribute to RCB Fans

Venkatesh Prasad, the former Indian cricketer and president of the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA), announced that a special prayer service was conducted to honor the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) supporters who tragically lost their lives in a stampede outside the M Chinnaswamy Stadium after RCB's first title victory in the previous Indian Premier League season. He mentioned that 11 seats will remain unoccupied during IPL and international matches at the stadium as a gesture of respect. Prasad stated, "We held a special prayer to remember those we lost and to show their families that we care. We will keep 11 seats vacant and will not sell them for any matches, whether IPL or international."

Memorial for the Deceased

Karnataka's Home Minister G Parameshwara revealed that the KSCA has erected a memorial to honor the 11 individuals who passed away. He remarked, "An unfortunate incident occurred where 11 young lives were lost at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. The Karnataka government, along with the cricket association and RCB, faced criticism following the event. In response, the government established a commission led by Justice John Michael D'Cunha, which provided serious recommendations in its report."

"The KSCA has made necessary changes, and we have allowed them to continue hosting matches at this venue. They have also installed a memorial to remember the 11 victims, which I commend," he added.

RCB Players' Commemorative Actions

In a show of respect, RCB players will don jersey number 11 during their warm-up session prior to their first home game of the IPL 2026 season. Additionally, they will wear black armbands during the match as a tribute to the 11 fans who lost their lives, as stated by Chief Executive Officer Rajesh Menon during the franchise's pre-season press conference.