RCB to Honor Stampede Victims: 11 Seats to Remain Empty at Chinnaswamy, Players Wear Jersey No. 11
Bengaluru: In a heartfelt tribute to the fans who tragically lost their lives during last season’s Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) celebrations, the franchise has announced a series of commemorative measures for the upcoming season. RCB CEO Rajesh Menon confirmed that 11 seats at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium will remain permanently empty, symbolizing the memory of the 11 fans who died in the stampede on June 4, 2025.
Players to Wear Jersey No. 11 and Black Armbands
Menon further revealed that RCB players will honor the victims in every possible way during the season. “In memory of the 11 fans who we lost on June 4, the players will be wearing jersey number 11 for practice sessions, on game day, and during pre-match warm-ups. Apart from that, they will also wear black armbands in all matches this season,” Menon said during a press conference on Tuesday.
“These gestures are small ways to ensure that the 11 fans will always be with us,” he added.
Safety Measures and Precautions
Following the tragedy, RCB has worked closely with authorities to enhance safety protocols at stadium events. Menon stated that several precautionary measures have already been implemented and further discussions are planned to explore additional support for the families of the victims.
The June 2025 Stampede
The stampede occurred outside the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium during RCB’s title victory celebrations, drawing a crowd of approximately 3 lakh people. Overcrowding led to 11 fatalities and more than 50 injuries. Investigations by the Karnataka government held RCB, the Karnataka State Cricket Association, and event organizers responsible for failing to obtain necessary approvals and ensuring public safety.
RCB subsequently announced a compensation of Rs 25 lakh for each of the families of the deceased. Following the incident, the stadium did not host any RCB games for a period, reflecting the magnitude of the tragedy.
Return to Chinnaswamy
With government approval, RCB is set to play five home matches at the Chinnaswamy Stadium in the upcoming season. Two additional home games will take place in Raipur, as previously planned.
Rajesh Menon concluded, “This year, while we honor the memories of the 11 fans who are now with us forever, we are also focused on making stadium experiences safer for everyone. Safety and remembrance go hand in hand.”
The franchise’s tribute ensures that the lives lost will never be forgotten and sets a precedent for honoring fans who have supported the team through thick and thin.
