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IPL 2026 Final Shifted to Ahmedabad as BCCI Prioritises Fans

The IPL 2026 final has officially been moved from Bengaluru’s Chinnaswamy Stadium to the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. IPL chairman Arun Singh Dhumal said the decision was taken to ensure fans do not face major ticket availability issues.

According to Dhumal, hosting the final in Bengaluru became difficult because of commitments involving the local cricket association and the Karnataka government. The situation would have left only a limited number of tickets available for the general public.

Why IPL Final Was Shifted From Bengaluru

The BCCI reportedly discussed the matter in detail with the Karnataka State Cricket Association after a new law regarding complimentary tickets for legislators came into effect. Officials later realised that a huge chunk of tickets would go toward official commitments and member allocations.

Dhumal explained that the IPL final is one of the biggest cricket events in the world, with fans travelling internationally to watch the match live.

“We cannot have fans at the receiving end in a tournament of this scale,” Dhumal said.

The IPL chairman added that Ahmedabad was considered a more suitable venue because of its larger capacity and better hospitality infrastructure.

RCB Could Lose Home Advantage

The decision could disappoint Royal Challengers Bengaluru fans if RCB manage to qualify for the final. Traditionally, the defending champions’ home association hosts the IPL final.

Dhumal admitted the move was unfortunate for Bengaluru supporters but described the situation as extraordinary.

The BCCI had earlier ensured that the opening game of the season remained in Bengaluru despite challenges linked to the government and local arrangements.

ICC Meeting Also Influenced the Decision

Another major factor behind the venue change is an upcoming ICC Board meeting that may now be held in Ahmedabad instead of Qatar due to ongoing tensions in West Asia.

Since international cricket officials from different countries are expected to attend, the BCCI believes the Narendra Modi Stadium offers better facilities to host global guests.

BCCI to Introduce New IPL Guidelines

Dhumal also confirmed that the BCCI will soon issue a fresh set of operational guidelines for IPL franchises, players, owners, and officials.

The move comes after reports suggested that certain PMOA protocols and operational rules were not being followed strictly by some teams during the tournament.

IPL Could Expand to 94 Matches

The IPL chairman further revealed that the BCCI is considering a return to a full home-and-away format after the current broadcast cycle ends.

If approved, the league could expand from 74 matches to 94 matches, allowing all 10 teams to play equal home and away fixtures.

Impact Player Rule May Be Reviewed

Dhumal also addressed the controversial Impact Player rule, which has received mixed reactions from players and franchises.

He said the BCCI remains open to reviewing the rule if required and will continue taking feedback to improve the competitiveness of the IPL.