The Karnataka government has approved Indian Premier League (IPL) matches at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, with safety conditions in place. This ends the uncertainty over Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) hosting matches at their home ground. The final details and conditions for crowd management will be announced in the coming days. Traditionally, the defending champions host the IPL opening game, Qualifier 2, and the final. With the government approval, RCB is expected to open IPL 2026 in Bengaluru. Bengaluru last hosted an IPL final in 2016 but lost to Sunrisers Hyderabad. The stadium was closed to spectators after a tragic stampede on June 4, 2016, during RCB's victory celebration that caused 11 deaths. Following public outcry and court scrutiny, the Karnataka High Court ordered a ban until safety measures were improved. Retired judge Michael Cunha’s probe recommended 17 steps to enhance stadium safety. The government asked GBA Commissioner Maheshwar Rao to check the Karnataka State Cricket Association’s (KSCA) safety compliance. On February 12, 2026, Law and Parliamentary Affairs Minister H.K. Patil confirmed the government will announce special orders on safety requirements. "The Home Department will issue special order revealing conditions and preparedness needed," Patil said. "The government took note of the Cunha Committee report and the report of expert committee, headed by Maheshwar Rao, following which the decision was taken."