Rajat Patidar's statement on IPL 2025 stampede tragedy [Source: @GarhManmohan, @nabilajamal_/X.com]
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) skipper Rajat Patidar has finally broken his silence on the horrific stampede that took place outside the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in June 2025. His statement comes only hours after Virat Kohli posted a heartfelt note for fans.
The tragic incident occurred when thousands of RCB fans gathered outside the stadium for the team’s IPL 2025 title victory celebration.
The euphoria turned into chaos as the security was unable to control the huge number of spectators, leading to a stampede where several lives were lost. The tragedy left the cricketing world in shock, overshadowing RCB’s maiden IPL title win.
Rajat Patidar Follows Virat Kohli With Heartfelt Message
Now, months later, RCB finally broke their silence. After the team and Virat Kohli released their respective statements, captain Rajat Patidar also broke his silence with a heartfelt message.
In a post released by RCB, the captain expressed his gratitude and grief. He promised to hold the memory of the victims forever and vowed to find strength again.
"Every time I walk out for RCB, it’s with passion, and that passion comes from you. From your love, your belief, and your unwavering support. You’ve always stood by us. And from the bottom of my heart, I want you to know that we stand with you too. You’ve all been in my thoughts and prayers. With all of us holding on to each other, we’ll find our strength again," Patidar stated.
The message struck an emotional chord with fans, who have been waiting for the team’s response to the heartbreaking incident. Before Patidar’s statement, Kohli also shared his pain on similar lines, as RCB is picking up the pieces of the devastating tragedy.
RCB To Open ‘Care’ Fund For Stampede Victims
Last month, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) announced ‘RCB CARES’, a long-term initiative focused on fan safety, community development, and support for the families affected by the tragic stampede outside M. Chinnaswamy Stadium on June 4, which claimed 11 lives.
As part of the initiative, RCB has committed ₹25 lakh of financial support to each family of the victims and promised continued assistance. The initiative will work on crowd safety audits, training for on-ground staff, inclusive community programmes, and a memorial space for fans.
RCB CARES aims to turn grief into meaningful action, ensuring safety and empowerment for its loyal 12th Man Army.