IPL 2026 Final Shifted From Bengaluru Due To Capacity, Not Security: Karnataka Minister

Karnataka Home Minister G. Parameshwara has stated that security concerns were not behind the decision to shift the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 final away from Bengaluru’s M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. The final, originally scheduled to be held in Bengaluru on May 31, has now been moved to the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad following a revised playoff schedule announced by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).

Speaking to reporters, Parameshwara said that no concerns had been raised by the police, IPL authorities, or the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) franchise regarding law and order or safety arrangements at the venue. He added that five matches had already been successfully conducted at the stadium without any security-related issues, indicating that safety was not a factor in the relocation decision.

The minister suggested that the decision may instead be linked to commercial and logistical considerations. He pointed to the stadium’s seating capacity as a possible reason, stating that the Chinnaswamy Stadium accommodates around 33,000 spectators, with a significant portion of seats reserved for sponsors and official allocations, leaving approximately 25,000 tickets for general sale. According to him, this limitation may have affected the commercial viability of hosting the final in Bengaluru.

Also Read: Brigade Parade Ground To Have Multi-Layered Security For Bengal BJP Swearing-In Event

Parameshwara further noted that the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) had been in touch with organisers but had not received the final allocation. He also remarked that traditionally, the home ground of the defending champion is considered for marquee matches like the opening game and final, though he suggested that broader logistical assessments may have influenced the final scheduling decision.

The BCCI, in its official communication, stated that Bengaluru was initially designated to host the final. However, it said the venue was changed due to certain requirements from the local association and authorities that did not align with established guidelines and protocols. No further details were provided regarding the specific reasons behind the shift.

Meanwhile, KSCA spokesperson Vinay Mruthyunjaya said the association had not received any official explanation for the decision but acknowledged that venue allocation remains the prerogative of the BCCI. Under the revised IPL schedule, Qualifier 1 will be held in Dharamsala, while the Eliminator and Qualifier 2 will take place in Mullanpur before the final is staged in Ahmedabad.

Also Read: North Korea Criticises Japan’s Plan To Revise Key Security And Defence Policies