Virat Kohli said he was “shocked and heartbroken” over the tragic loss of lives and injuries caused by a stampede outside Bengaluru’s M Chinnaswamy Stadium during Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s (RCB) IPL 2025 title celebrations on Wednesday, June 4.
The incident occurred when a massive crowd gathered to celebrate RCB’s historic first IPL title win. As fans rushed to catch a glimpse of the team, chaos broke out, leading to the deaths of at least 11 people and injuring over 30 others.
Kohli shared RCB’s official statement on his Instagram Stories and added an emotional note, saying, “At a loss for words. Absolutely gutted,” as he reacted to the heartbreaking incident.
RCB releases official statement — Rephrased:
In its official response, Royal Challengers Bengaluru conveyed deep sorrow over the tragic events tied to the large crowds awaiting the team’s arrival. The statement read, “We are extremely saddened by the tragic incidents reported by the media involving public gatherings across Bengaluru ahead of the team’s welcome this afternoon.”
RCB highlighted the critical importance of safety, stating, “Ensuring the safety and well-being of everyone is our highest priority.” The team also offered their “deepest condolences to the families affected” by the heartbreaking loss of lives.
RCB victory celebration marred by tragedy: 11 dead in stampede
The joy of Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s first IPL championship was overshadowed by a deadly stampede outside M Chinnaswamy Stadium, resulting in 11 fatalities and 33 injuries. Thousands of fans had gathered to witness the team during the planned victory festivities.
The stadium surroundings were crowded with enthusiastic supporters, some climbing trees, poles, and walls to get a better view. What began as a celebratory event quickly escalated into chaos as the crowd surged forward, causing a fatal stampede.
Scenes of chaos: Witnesses recount the horror
Scattered shoes, sports gear, and personal items littered the site of the tragedy. Eyewitnesses described the suffocating conditions and a sudden crush that left many people trapped and injured.
One witness shared that despite warnings from those at the front to stop pushing, people kept pressing forward. “I saw many girls fall down, some even on me. I sustained some rib injuries, but thankfully no dislocations—just muscle pain,” he said.
Another bystander recalled that 30 to 40 people collapsed simultaneously due to the surge, yet the crowd behind kept moving forward relentlessly. “I saw three to four people die right before my eyes,” he added.
“At 3 pm, we were told to gather at gate number 7, but no one was allowed inside the stadium until 5:20 pm. There was only a small opening—what else could happen? Around 300-400 people were at that gate… it was suffocating, and I’m just grateful to be alive,” he recounted.