For the first time in the competition’s history, the 2026 edition of the Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League (CPL) final will be played at Kensington Oval in Barbados. Alongside the grand finale, all playoff games are expected to be played at the venue.
The tournament’s chief executive officer, Pete Russell, confirmed this announcement.
The move comes after the previous four finals, dating back to 2022, were held at the Providence Stadium in Guyana. According to reports, the stadium generated US$84 million in 2022 and a record US$101.6 million in 2023.
While official figures for 2025 are not yet available, it could be another record-breaking year based on figures and the number of tickets sold.
In an interview, Russell revealed that “more tickets than ever” have been sold in this year’s tournament and expressed confidence that the success will continue into 2026.
He added that he expected Barbados to hold an equally successful tournament for the 14th edition.
He said with the final scheduled to be held at Kensington Oval, he was predicting a much-improved performance by the Barbados Royals, who finished last in this year’s tournament.
“I think the Barbados team and I, and I’m sure the management of the Barbados team, will look at it very closely, because you want the home team, the hosting team of the finals, to do well.
“I mean, we got Guyana in the finals here. It makes a big difference. But Barbados fans love cricket, so I’m sure they’ll come and watch whoever’s in the final,” Russell said.
“I think that franchise will get its act together and be competitive next year. We’re changing the rules, of course, so everyone goes back into the draft at the end of this tournament, so the teams will look very different going forward, which is exciting as well.”
