Royal Challengers Bengalurubooked their place in the IPL 2026 final with a commanding 92-run victory over Gujarat Titans in Qualifier 1. The summit clash will be held on May 31 at Narendra Modi Stadium, where RCB will have the opportunity to defend the title they won in 2025. The Bengaluru-based side entered the season as defending champions after finally ending their long wait for an IPL trophy by defeating Punjab Kings in last year’s final.

Over the years, RCB have built one of the strongest fan bases in world cricket. Despite not winning a title for many seasons, the franchise consistently remained among the most popular teams because of its star-studded line-up, fearless batting approach, and passionate supporters. However, their journey in IPL finals has often been filled with heartbreak and near misses.

RCB first reached the IPL final in 2009 under challenging conditions in Johannesburg. They came agonisingly close to lifting the trophy but eventually lost to Deccan Chargers by six runs in a tense encounter. Two years later, they qualified for the final again in 2011, only to suffer a heavy 58-run defeat against Chennai Super Kings in Chennai.

Their most painful loss perhaps came in 2016 when they looked favourites to win the title after a brilliant season. However, Sunrisers Hyderabad edged them out by just eight runs in a thrilling contest, leaving RCB fans heartbroken once again.

After that defeat, the franchise had to wait another nine years before returning to the final stage. In IPL 2025, RCB finally ended the long-standing curse and lifted their maiden IPL trophy with a dominant performance against Punjab Kings. Now, with another final appearance secured, they are determined to defend their crown and become only the third franchise in IPL history to successfully retain the title.