Karnataka Government Approves Chinnaswamy Stadium to Host IPL 2026 Matches

The Karnataka government has granted final approval for the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru to host IPL 2026 matches, including the season opener between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Sunrisers Hyderabad on March 28. This follows safety upgrades and infrastructure improvements recommended by an expert committee formed after a 2025 stampede that caused 11 deaths. KSCA completed Phase 1 safety measures, including widened gates and emergency access, and plans public awareness campaigns. The stadium will host five RCB home games, playoffs, and the final, with two matches scheduled in Raipur.