5 reasons why Virat Kohli might quit RCB after IPL 2025 triumph

After 18 years with Royal Challengers Bangalore, India’s cricket icon Virat Kohli may be ready to walk away. From emotional scars to family priorities, here’s what could be driving his decision.

Virat Kohli has been synonymous with Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) since the very first IPL season in 2008. For 18 long years, he carried the team’s hopes, endured heartbreaks, and stayed loyal even as other stars switched sides. But after finally lifting the IPL trophy in 2025, Kohli’s next move has become one of the most talked-about mysteries in Indian cricket. Reports now suggest that the RCB legend might not return for IPL 2026, and here’s why.

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1. The dream finally fulfilled

Kohli’s biggest dream, to win an IPL title for RCB, came true this year. After nearly two decades of trying, he finally achieved what had eluded him for years. With that monumental win, sources say Kohli may feel he has “nothing left to prove” in franchise cricket. Many believe this emotional closure could be the perfect time for him to step away gracefully.

2. Haunted by the Chinnaswamy tragedy

RCB’s post-title celebration at Bengaluru’s M. Chinnaswamy Stadium turned dark when 11 fans lost their lives in a stampede.The incident deeply affected Kohli, who reportedly went into silence afterward. Insiders claim that the tragedy has weighed heavily on his mind and may have played a major role in his decision to distance himself from the team.

3. RCB ownership and management shake-up

RCB’s current owners are reportedly exploring the sale of the franchise, at nearly double its market valuation. This move could completely alter the team’s management and structure. Kohli, who values long-standing loyalty and team culture, may not want to associate with a changed ownership that lacks the same emotional connection.

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4. Age and physical fatigue

At 37, Kohli remains one of the fittest athletes in the world, but years of intense cricket, both international and IPL, have taken their toll. Though he appears physically strong, sources close to the cricketer suggest that his body no longer recovers the way it once did. Kohli’s internal struggle between passion and physical limits might be pushing him toward rest and recovery.

5. Family comes first

Having achieved everything a cricketer possibly can, Kohli might now want to dedicate more time to his family. The father of two, with a constantly touring career, has often spoken about wanting to be present for his children’s formative years. After two decades of continuous cricket, a pause to focus on family life seems both natural and necessary.

As of now, there’s no official word from Kohli or RCB regarding his future. 

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