BCCI Moves IPL 2026 Final from Bengaluru to Ahmedabad Amid Ticket Controversy

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has officially moved the IPL 2026 final from Bengaluru to Ahmedabad , marking a significant change in the tournament’s closing stage. The title clash, earlier scheduled at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium , will now be held at the Narendra Modi Stadium .

The decision comes after a controversy over demand for free VIP tickets by Karnataka lawmakers. Reports suggest that Deputy Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar had promised three complimentary passes per MLA , but unresolved issues over distribution and logistical concerns created complications. To avoid disruption and ensure smoother operations, the BCCI opted to shift the final venue .

Along with the final, the playoff schedule has also been revised. Qualifier 1 will take place in Dharamsala on May 26 at the HPCA Stadium , while the Eliminator and Qualifier 2 will be played in Mullanpur on May 27 and 29 at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium .

The move has sparked mixed reactions . Fans of Royal Challengers Bengaluru expressed disappointment over losing a potential home final, calling it a missed opportunity for the city. On the other hand, supporters in Ahmedabad celebrated the return of a high profile final , with the city once again hosting one of cricket’s biggest nights.

The decision highlights how administrative and political factors can influence major sporting events, where logistics and coordination often become as crucial as on field performance.