Bengaluru’s M. Chinnaswamy Stadium has lost the hosting rights for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 final, originally set for May 31. This decision came after disagreements over demands and organizational issues with local authorities and stakeholders. Negotiations between IPL officials and the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) failed due to what was considered excessive requests, including passes for members and politicians.
The situation was further complicated by concerns over ticket black marketing, leading to integrity and logistical worries. Consequently, the IPL final venue was shifted to Ahmedabad to ensure smoother operations and better control over arrangements for one of the tournament’s key matches. The final usually takes place at the home ground of the reigning champion, but due to challenges beyond the BCCI’s guidelines, this year’s final will be held at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) cited operational and logistical considerations for the change in venue. The IPL 2026 Playoffs will be conducted across three venues this season, with the final scheduled for May 31 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, known as the world’s largest cricket stadium. The tournament’s knockout stage will kick off with Qualifier 1 on May 26 at the HPCA Stadium in Dharamshala, offering a direct berth in the final to the top two teams in the standings.
