Daijiworld Media Network - Bengaluru

Bengaluru, Mar 24: Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have announced a series of tribute measures to honour fans who lost their lives in last year’s tragic stampede outside the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium.

RCB CEO Rajesh Menon said the franchise will permanently keep 11 seats vacant at the stadium during all domestic and international matches as a mark of remembrance for the 11 victims of the June 4, 2025 tragedy.

As part of the tribute, players will wear jerseys bearing the number 11 during practice sessions throughout the season and don black armbands during matches in this edition.

Menon explained that while the special jersey will not be used during official matches, it will be worn during training and pre-match practice sessions to symbolise solidarity and remembrance. He added that the black armbands will serve as a visible tribute on match days.

The franchise has also introduced enhanced safety measures this season, with officials reviewing protocols and planning further discussions on additional support for the victims’ families.

The tragedy occurred on June 4, 2025, when a massive crowd gathered outside the stadium to celebrate RCB’s title victory, leading to a deadly stampede. Eleven people were killed and more than 50 injured amid severe overcrowding, with an estimated 300,000 fans present.

Following the incident, the Government of Karnataka held RCB, the Karnataka State Cricket Association, and event organisers responsible for lapses in permissions and crowd management. The franchise later announced compensation of Rs 25 lac for each bereaved family.

After a hiatus, Chinnaswamy Stadium is set to host RCB matches again this season with government approval. The team will play five home games in Bengaluru, while two matches will be ?????? in Raipur, as part of the revised schedule.