Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) has not faced a ban from IPL 2026 as of October 11, 2025. However, the franchise now faces intense scrutiny after a tragic stampede during their IPL 2025 victory parade in Bengaluru. The incident killed 11 people and injured dozens. The celebrations that were supposed to mark a historic title win for RCB turned into a day of grief for families who lost loved ones. This heartbreaking tragedy triggered speculation that the franchise might face suspension because of alleged negligence.
Authorities filed an FIR against RCB, the event management company that handled logistics, and the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA). Police blamed the organizers for lapses in crowd control and safety arrangements. Investigators arrested the head of marketing for Diageo, RCB’s parent company, soon after the inquiry began. Two KSCA officials resigned and took moral responsibility for the mishap.
BCCI’s Response: No Ban Yet, But Serious Concerns Remain
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has clearly stated: RCB will play in IPL 2026. The board called the incident deeply unfortunate and clarified that the franchise organized the victory parade, not the BCCI. Even so, the board said it cannot stay silent when lives were lost during a cricket celebration.
BCCI officials confirmed that the governing council will discuss the matter in its next meeting. They said the board might take deterrent action depending on what the Karnataka government’s investigation reveals. If investigators prove gross negligence, the board will face pressure to act against RCB.
The IPL has imposed harsh measures before. In 2015, the BCCI suspended both Chennai Super Kings and Rajasthan Royals for two years for spot-fixing and betting. That case involved corruption, but RCB’s situation hurts more because it involves human loss. The ongoing probe now carries both legal and emotional weight.
Is RCB Banned from IPL 2026? Ownership Rumors Add More Uncertainty
As the investigation continues, reports about a potential ownership change at RCB have started to spread. Sources claim that Serum Institute CEO Adar Poonawalla wants to buy the franchise. However, neither Poonawalla nor United Spirits, RCB’s current owner, has confirmed this claim. The rumors have only deepened uncertainty around the club’s future.
RCB continues to hold a strong reputation despite the crisis. Their title-winning run, the first in the team’s history, brought Bengaluru to a standstill. After the tragedy, though, fans began demanding accountability before any celebration.
On the cricket front, RCB’s management has already started planning for IPL 2026. NewsFirst Prime reported that the team will retain its core squad, including captain Rajat Patidar and veteran Virat Kohli. They will release a few underperforming players. The BCCI has set mid-December 2025 for the IPL 2026 mini-auction, and November 15, 2025, as the deadline for retention lists.
What Lies Ahead for RCB and IPL 2026?
Right now, RCB remains part of IPL 2026, and no signs that point to an upcoming suspension. The Karnataka government’s investigation will decide what happens next. The findings will guide the BCCI in choosing its next step. If investigators confirm negligence, the board may punish RCB to protect the IPL’s credibility.
For now, RCB prepares for the next season and works to rebuild public trust. The emotional toll of the tragedy still weighs heavily. How the franchise handles this moment will define its image for years ahead.
As cricket fans wait for the final report, one question continues to echo — can any celebration justify the loss of human life?
What do you think — should RCB face suspension if found guilty of negligence, or should punishment target only those directly responsible? Share your thoughts below and join the conversation.
