Cricket Legends Mourn Chinnaswamy Stampede Tragedy That Claimed 11 Lives

What should have been a day of pure joy for Royal Challengers Bengaluru fans turned into heartbreak on Wednesday. A stampede outside the M Chinnaswamy Stadium during the team’s IPL victory celebrations claimed the lives of 11 people and left 33 others injured, turning celebration into chaos.

RCB icon Virat Kohli, who played a massive role in the team’s long-awaited title win, took to Instagram late in the evening to express his grief. "At a loss for words. Absolutely gutted," he wrote, while sharing RCB’s official statement on the incident.  

The statement read: "We are deeply anguished by the unfortunate incidents that have come to light through media reports regarding public gatherings all over Bengaluru in anticipation of the team's arrival this afternoon. The safety and well-being of everyone is of utmost importance to us. RCB mourns the tragic loss of lives and extend our heartfelt condolences to the affected families. Immediately upon being made aware of the situation, we promptly amended our program, and followed the guidance and advice of the local administration." 

The atmosphere around the stadium, which was packed with jubilant supporters, turned tense and uncontrollable, with local authorities struggling to manage the overwhelming crowd. Due to the tragedy, RCB had to scale back the celebrations. Only captain Rajat Patidar and Virat Kohli addressed the crowd inside the stadium before presenting the trophy. 

RCB legend AB de Villiers also shared his heartbreak on X (formerly Twitter): “My thoughts and prayers are with all those affected by the tragic events at the Chinnaswamy stadium today.” Indian cricket great Sachin Tendulkar offered his condolences too, writing: “What happened at Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru, is beyond tragic. My heart goes out to every affected family. Wishing peace and strength to all.” India's highest test wicket-taker Anil Kumble wished a quick recovery to those injured in the stampede and wrote on X, "It's a Sad day for Cricket! My heart goes out to the families of those who lost their lives while celebrating RCB's victory today. Praying for the speedy recovery of those injured. Tragic !!"  

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah confirmed the grim news and announced compensation of Rs 10 lakh to the families of those who lost their lives. “A major tragedy occurred during the victory celebrations. It happened near the Chinnaswamy Stadium. The government will provide free treatment to the injured,” he said. 

Also Read: RCB Title Celebrations Turn Tragic: Stampede Near Chinnaswamy Stadium Leaves 11 Feared Dead, Dozens Injured