The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) decided on Thursday to cancel the opening ceremony of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 as a mark of respect for the victims of last year’s tragic stampede in Bengaluru, reports Daily Sun.
The decision was taken ahead of the season-opening match between Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Sunrisers Hyderabad at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, the Times of India report told.
The tragedy occurred on 4 June, 2025, during celebrations following RCB’s maiden IPL title, when an overwhelming crowd triggered a stampede that claimed 11 lives and left several others injured.
BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia confirmed that the board chose not to hold any formal festivities at the start of the tournament to honour those who lost their lives and to show respect to their families.
Fans had been expecting the customary spectacle of music, performances and celebrity appearances before the curtain-raiser in Bengaluru. However, the board opted for a subdued beginning, reflecting remembrance rather than celebration.
Instead, the IPL Governing Council is planning a grand closing ceremony on 31 May, the day of the final, to conclude the 19th edition of the league on a celebratory note.
Bd-Pratidin English/ AM
