What was meant to be a night of jubilation turned into a heartbreaking tragedy for Royal Challengers Bengaluru fans. A stampede outside M Chinnaswamy Stadium during RCB’s IPL 2025 victory celebration led to the death of 11 people and left 33 others injured.
The horrifying incident unfolded while thousands of fans had gathered to welcome their champions home after RCB’s historic maiden IPL title win over Punjab Kings. Unfortunately, mismanagement and overcrowding led to chaos, forcing the event to be cut short.
Kohli Reacts: ‘At a Loss for Words’
Virat Kohli, who had been the emotional center of RCB’s campaign, was left devastated by the news. He shared RCB’s official statement on his Instagram story and added:
“At a loss for words. Absolutely gutted.”
His wife, actress Anushka Sharma, also shared the post with heartbreak emojis, expressing deep sorrow over the tragedy.
RCB, AB de Villiers Mourn the Loss
The RCB franchise issued a formal statement, expressing anguish and extending condolences to the bereaved families:
“We are deeply anguished by the unfortunate incidents… RCB mourns the tragic loss of lives and extends our heartfelt condolences.”
AB de Villiers, former RCB star, also wrote on X (formerly Twitter):
“My thoughts and prayers are with all those affected by the tragic events at the Chinnaswamy stadium today.”
Celebrations Cut Short After News Emerged
Earlier in the day, the team visited the Karnataka CM at Vidhana Soudha, and later made their way to the stadium for the public event. The tragic news came just ahead of the team’s arrival at the venue.
Only brief speeches were delivered by captain Rajat Patidar and Virat Kohli, who then held the trophy up before a silent and subdued crowd.
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