IPL 2026: Why Was the Hosting of the IPL Final Taken Away from Bengaluru? DK Shivakumar Responds; Addresses the Ticket Controversy.

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar on Wednesday dismissed allegations that the IPL final was shifted from Bengaluru to Ahmedabad because tickets were being distributed to legislators. Shivakumar stated that since Ahmedabad boasts a larger stadium, it can accommodate a greater number of spectators; this, he suggested, could be the reason why the final was relocated there.

Venue Changed Due to Larger Stadium Capacity?

Shivakumar remarked, “Ahmedabad has a larger stadium and a higher spectator capacity. That must be the reason. There is no connection between providing tickets to legislators and the change of venue.” When asked whether the decision was driven by demands for tickets from legislators, he quipped, “In some places, as much as 50 percent of the tickets are reserved.”

What Did the BCCI Say?

When reporters pointed out that the BCCI had alluded to issues regarding tickets, he responded, “Let them continue making such statements; I will provide a response at the appropriate time.” Initially, Bengaluru was considered a potential host for the final, given that the Royal Challengers Bengaluru were the defending champions. However, the BCCI announced that the final—scheduled for May 31—would be held in Ahmedabad for the second consecutive year. Qualifier 1 is set to be played in Dharamshala, while the remaining two playoff matches will take place in New Chandigarh. The BCCI stated that the venue for the final was changed due to certain requirements raised by the local association and administration, which fell outside the scope of the Board’s established guidelines and protocols.