Ahmedabad will host the Indian Premier League 2026 Final on May 31, marking the second consecutive year and the fourth time since 2022 that the title clash will be held at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium.
As per the tournament’s existing convention, Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s home venue in Bengaluru was expected to host the final after the franchise emerged as defending champions.
However, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) said the venue was shifted due to “operational requirements” raised by local authorities and the state association.
Announcing the playoff schedule on Wednesday, the BCCI confirmed that Qualifier 1 involving the top two teams will be played on May 26 at the HPCA Stadium, while the Eliminator on May 27 and Qualifier 2 on May 29 will take place at the New PCA Stadium.
“The season will conclude with the grand final on May 31 at the Narendra Modi Stadium, the world’s largest cricket stadium with a capacity of 132,000,” the BCCI said, adding that the shift was necessitated by “requirements from the local association and authorities beyond established guidelines and protocols.”
KSCA Voices Disappointment
The Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA), which had expected Bengaluru to host the summit clash, expressed disappointment over the decision.KSCA spokesperson Vinay Mruthyunjaya said the association was fully prepared and willing to host the final, adding that the exact reasons for the shift had not yet been formally communicated.
Sources Cite ‘Unacceptable’ Demands
According to sources, discussions reportedly collapsed over demands considered “unacceptable,” including requests for complimentary passes for members and politicians, as well as concerns related to ticket black-marketing and logistical arrangements.Officials said these issues prompted the BCCI to move the final to Ahmedabad to ensure smoother operations. The decision comes despite significant infrastructure and security upgrades at Bengaluru’s M Chinnaswamy Stadium following last year’s stampede incident. Matches hosted there this season were conducted without major issues and received positive feedback.
Ahmedabad Emerges as IPL’s Preferred Final Venue
While the KSCA has reiterated its readiness to host marquee fixtures, Ahmedabad’s repeated selection has further strengthened its position as the IPL’s premier venue for finals.