Bengaluru: Days after Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) unveiled a six-point manifesto for meaningful action following the tragic stampede during their IPL 2025 victory celebrations, former captain Virat Kohli has spoken publicly about the heartbreak.

The stampede, which occurred on June 4 near the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, claimed 11 lives and injured more than 40 people. What was meant to be a jubilant citywide celebration of RCB’s maiden IPL title ended in chaos after mismanagement of crowd control led to one of the worst sporting-related tragedies in Bengaluru’s history.

Kohli breaks silence on heartbreak

“Nothing in life really prepares you for a heartbreak like June 4th. What should’ve been the happiest moment in our franchise’s history turned into something tragic,” Kohli said in a statement shared by RCB on Monday.

“I’ve been thinking of and praying for the families of those we lost and for our fans who were injured. Your loss is part of our story now. Together, we will move forward with care, respect and responsibility,” he added.

Kohli had been leading the celebrations inside the stadium when news of the stampede broke outside. The franchise immediately cut short festivities that day. Earlier, the team had been felicitated by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah at Vidhana Soudha.

How the tragedy unfolded

The incident was reportedly triggered by the sudden announcement of an open-top bus parade, despite police not granting permission for such a procession. Thousands of supporters, already gathered outside the stadium, rushed to catch a glimpse of their heroes. The resulting chaos led to the fatal stampede.

The state government later ordered an inquiry into the mishap, with a panel declaring the M Chinnaswamy Stadium structurally unsafe for large-scale gatherings. Women’s World Cup matches and a local T20 tournament were shifted to alternative venues, including Mysuru, following the report.

RCB’s response and six-point manifesto

On August 30, RCB announced a revised compensation package, pledging ₹25 lakh for each family of the deceased and financial assistance for the injured. Initially, the franchise had declared ₹10 lakh per family, but the figure was increased as part of their new initiative — RCB Cares.

Earlier this month, the franchise revealed a six-point agenda aimed at going beyond compensation:

  • Beyond financial aid: Fast, transparent, and humane support for affected fans and families.
  • Safe & inclusive spaces: Collaboration with authorities to strengthen crowd management.
  • Empower communities: Launch of social programmes, starting with Karnataka’s Siddi community.
  • Invest in safety: Annual fan-safety audits and training for on-ground staff.
  • Honour fans: A dedicated memorial space in Bengaluru for the team’s most passionate supporters.
  • Build futures: Support for in-stadia jobs, local talent development, and sports professionals of tomorrow.

Conclusion

The tragedy has cast a long shadow over RCB’s historic triumph, but both the franchise and its star players are attempting to rebuild trust. Kohli’s remarks underscore the emotional weight carried by the team and its fans as they strive to ensure that such a disaster is never repeated.