Nearly three months after the stampede in Bengaluru during Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s IPL 2025 title celebration, Virat Kohli has broken his silence. What should have been a historic and cherished moment for RCB turned tragic, with 11 fans losing their lives and several others injured.
“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. 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,” RCB posted a quote on Instagram attributing it to their former captain Kohli.
RCB Cares: Financial Support for Victims’ Families
Last month, the franchise announced its ‘RCB Cares’ initiative. RCB pledged financial assistance of Rs 25 lakh each to the families of the 11 fans who lost their lives.
As per reports, nearly 2.5 lakh people had gathered outside M Chinnaswamy Stadium. The crowd wanted to witness RCB players arriving after their maiden IPL title win over Punjab Kings in Ahmedabad. The franchise had earlier finished runners-up three times but never clinched the trophy before 2025.
Kohli, who broke down into tears after RCB’s victory, has remained silent on the incident until now.
RCB Faces Criticism Over Event Handling
The franchise has been facing severe criticism for mishandling the victory celebrations. Several reports claim that RCB was advised not to go ahead with the large-scale event.
After maintaining silence for nearly three months, RCB issued an emotional statement on X (formerly Twitter).
“Our hearts broke on June 4, 2025. We lost eleven members of the RCB family. They were part of us. Part of what makes our city, our community & our team unique. Their absence will echo in the memories of each one of us,” said RCB.
“No amount of support can ever fill the space they’ve left behind. But as a first step, and with the deepest respect, RCB has extended Rs 25 lakh each to their families. Not just as financial aid, but as a promise of compassion, unity, and ongoing care,” it added.
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