Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) on Saturday announced a financial package of Rs 25 lakh each for the families of the eleven victims who lost their lives in the stampede outside the M Chinnaswamy Stadium.The franchise also unveiled RCB CARES, a new long-term initiative aimed at providing sustained community support.The financial assistance, according to RCB, is being extended as the first step towards standing with the bereaved families. “This is not just financial aid, but a promise of compassion, unity, and ongoing care,” the statement read.
The tragic incident occurred on June 4, 2025, when overcrowding and uncontrolled rush outside the Chinnaswamy Stadium gates led to a stampede, resulting in the deaths of eleven members of the RCB family. The franchise said the loss had left an irreparable void.“Our hearts broke on June 4, 2025. We lost eleven members of the RCB family. They were part of us, part of what makes our city, our community, and our team unique. Their absence will echo in the memories of each one of us,” the statement added.
Alongside the financial package, the franchise launched *RCB CARES*, a long-term initiative that will go beyond immediate relief to build structured programmes of support. The initiative will begin by honouring the memory of those lost and gradually expand into welfare measures for fans, families, and the larger community connected with the team.
“Every step forward will reflect what the fans feel, expect, and deserve,” RCB said, while noting that further details of RCB CARES will be made public in the coming weeks.The twin announcement – of direct financial assistance and the introduction of RCB CARES – comes in the wake of widespread grief and criticism over the handling of stadium entry that led to the stampede.The franchise said it was committed to ensuring that such tragedies are remembered not only with sorrow but also with meaningful action. (UNI)
