RCB Honors Fans with Black Armbands in IPL 2026 Opener

RCB's Tribute in the IPL 2026 Kickoff

In their opening match of the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL) against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) are donning black armbands. This match is being held at the renowned M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Saturday, March 28. Led by Rajat Patidar, RCB is eager to start their season strong, aiming to join the ranks of Mumbai Indians (MI) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) as the only teams to successfully defend their title. This match marks a historic moment for RCB as it is their first game as 'defending champions,' following their victory over Punjab Kings (PBKS) in the 2025 final. Notably, this is also the first time Virat Kohli has lifted the trophy, having spent his entire career with RCB.

Reason Behind the Black Armbands

The black armbands worn by RCB serve as a tribute to the eleven fans who tragically lost their lives during the team's title celebrations last year. The celebrations took a tragic turn the day after the team secured the trophy in Ahmedabad, as they traveled to Bengaluru for a scheduled event at the Chinnaswamy Stadium. An open bus ride was planned, but a devastating stampede occurred. In remembrance of this tragic event, RCB has decided to keep eleven seats permanently vacant in the P1 Stand of the Chinnaswamy Stadium. Additionally, players will wear practice jerseys featuring the number '11' during their warm-up before the match. RCB expressed their commitment to honoring the memory of the eleven fans, stating, "Royal Challengers Bengaluru will pay tribute to the eleven members of the RCB family who tragically lost their lives in the unfortunate incident on June 4." Furthermore, no opening ceremony will take place as a gesture of respect for those who lost their lives.