The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), led by the iconic Virat Kohli, have booked 2026 IPL home matches at the remarkable M. Chinnaswamy Stadium of India. However, the team is not confining themselves to M. Chinnaswamy only and is considering other venues due to the unfortunate incident that occurred during the 2025 trophy celebration and resulted in the stampede which claimed 11 lives and left many others with injuries.

M. Chinnaswamy Stadium has been the home ground of RCB since the very first IPL season back in 2008. RCB might have gone back and forth regarding their position due to the unfortunate incident and the negative public reaction that ensued. However, RCB has not made any inquiries with the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) so far about the possibility of moving their matches to the stadium.

As per the reports, Raipur in Chhattisgarh and Indore in Madhya Pradesh have become potential new locations for RCB’s home ground, with Raipur being the leading candidate among newer possible locations. With IPL 2026 starting from March 21, the KSCA is in a hurry to get the arrangements done.

Interestingly, Virat Kohli’s match in the Vijay Hazare Trophy for Delhi against Andhra Pradesh on December 24, 2025, was moved at a very short notice from M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, which was an early sign of difficulties in logistics.

In addition, not only the Rajasthan Royals but other teams as well are relocating their home grounds for next season. The Royals will be at the MCA Stadium, Pune instead of Sawai Mansingh Stadium, Jaipur for the season. The long-standing friction between the team and the RCA, which is associated with the IPL 2025 match-fixing case, has finally resulted in the Royals moving.

The MCA Stadium of Pune has the distinction of being a premier IPL venue and has also played a major role in the development of Indian cricket as it has been the home ground for five teams namely Pune Warriors India, Rising Pune Supergiant, the Punjab Kings, and the Chennai Super Kings. Furthermore, the stadium hosted the 2023 Men’s ODI World Cup and the Women’s T20 Challenge alongside many other international cricket tournaments, thus, making it one of the most sought-after cricket venues in India.

RCB’s hitherto undisclosed change in venue may ultimately lead to the severance of the long-standing 18 years and more partnership with M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, which will be decided when the IPL 2026 is concluded.