Virat Kohli on RCB stampede: ‘What should’ve been our happiest day turned tragic’

New Delhi: Former Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) captain Virat Kohli has shared an emotional message for the victims of the June 4 stampede outside the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, which claimed 11 lives during the team’s Indian Premier League (IPL) victory celebrations.

“Nothing in life really prepares you for a heartbreak like June 4th. What should’ve been the happiest moment in our franchise’s history turned into something tragic,” Kohli said in a post shared by RCB on X. “I’ve been thinking of and praying for the families of those we lost and for our fans who were injured. Your loss is part of our story now. Together, we will move forward with care, respect and responsibility.” 

The tragedy unfolded as nearly three lakh fans gathered in Bengaluru to celebrate RCB’s maiden IPL title. The crowd surge led to a stampede outside the stadium, leaving 11 dead and over 50 injured.

Last month, RCB announced financial assistance of ₹25 lakh each for the families of the deceased. The franchise also launched “RCB CARES”, a long-term initiative to support and empower fans.

“Our hearts broke on June 4. We lost eleven members of the RCB family. They were part of us, part of what makes our city and our community unique,” RCB said in a statement. The franchise added that the support would extend beyond financial aid to provide ongoing, compassionate assistance to affected families.

The cricketing fraternity and fans have since expressed solidarity, with Kohli’s message echoing the grief of a city where joy and tragedy became forever intertwined.