IPL 2026 Final Moves to Ahmedabad: Chairman Arun Dhumal Explains Decision
Why Was Ahmedabad Chosen Over Bengaluru For IPL 2026 Final? Chairman Arun Dhumal Breaks Silence
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The IPL 2026 final will be held at Ahmedabad's Narendra Modi Stadium on May 31, instead of Bengaluru, due to high demand for complimentary tickets from the Karnataka government. IPL Chairman Arun Dhumal cited logistical challenges and the need for a larger venue as key reasons for the change.
- 01The final will take place on May 31 at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.
- 02Bengaluru was originally set to host, being home to defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru.
- 03High demand for complimentary tickets from the Karnataka government made hosting in Bengaluru untenable.
- 04Ahmedabad's stadium can accommodate 1.30 lakh spectators, significantly more than Bengaluru's capacity.
- 05The Karnataka State Cricket Association expressed disappointment over losing the final hosting opportunity.
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IPL Chairman Arun Dhumal announced that the IPL 2026 final will occur at Ahmedabad's Narendra Modi Stadium on May 31, instead of Bengaluru. The decision was made due to logistical issues, particularly the Karnataka government's demand for complimentary tickets for legislators, which would be challenging to accommodate at Bengaluru's 40,000 capacity venue. Dhumal explained that the final traditionally hosted in the city of the defending champions, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, was deemed untenable due to these requirements. The larger capacity of Ahmedabad's stadium, which can hold 1.30 lakh spectators, was deemed necessary to meet the high demand from fans and international guests, especially with an ICC board meeting coinciding with the event. The Karnataka State Cricket Association expressed disappointment over not being able to host the final, stating they had prepared adequately for the event.
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The decision to move the final may affect local fans in Bengaluru who were looking forward to attending the match.
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