Mallya reflects on signing a young Virat Kohli and founding RCB as the franchise lifts its maiden IPL trophy after 18 long years.
June 4, 2025 | As Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) finally ended their 18-year-long title drought by defeating Punjab Kings (PBKS) in the IPL 2025 Final, emotions ran high across the cricketing world—and especially for the team’s original founder, Vijay Mallya.
Taking to social media after RCB’s maiden title win, Mallya, who was the face behind the franchise’s launch in 2008, recalled the journey from inception to glory. He expressed heartfelt congratulations to the team, coaching staff, and especially to Virat Kohli, whom he famously picked as a teenager during the league’s inaugural season.
“RCB are IPL Champions finally after 18 years. Superb campaign right through the 2025 tournament. A well-balanced team Playing Bold with outstanding coaching and support staff. Many congratulations! Ee Sala Cup Namde!!” he posted on X (formerly Twitter).
RCB are IPL Champions finally after 18 years. Superb campaign right through the 2025 tournament. A well balanced team Playing Bold with outstanding coaching and support staff. Many congratulations ! Ee sala cup namde !!
— Vijay Mallya (@TheVijayMallya) June 3, 2025
In a follow-up post, Mallya grew more nostalgic:
Also Read: IPL 2025 Final: Bengaluru Erupts in Joy as RCB Clinch Maiden Trophy After 18-Year Wait
“When I founded RCB it was my dream that the IPL trophy should come to Bengaluru. I had the privilege of picking the legendary King Kohli as a youngster, and it is remarkable that he has stayed with RCB for 18 years. I also had the honour of picking Chris Gayle, the Universe Boss, and Mr. 360 AB de Villiers who remain an indelible part of RCB history. Finally, the IPL trophy arrives in Bengaluru. Congratulations and thanks again to all who made my dream come true. RCB fans are the very best and they deserve the IPL trophy. Ee Sala Cup Bengaluru Baruthe!”
When I founded RCB it was my dream that the IPL trophy should come to Bengaluru. I had the privilege of picking the legendary King Kohli as a youngster and it is remarkable that he has stayed with RCB for 18 years. I also had the honour of picking Chris Gayle the Universe Boss…
— Vijay Mallya (@TheVijayMallya) June 3, 2025
Mallya’s emotional tribute resonated with fans who had waited over a decade for this moment. The victory not only fulfilled a long-standing dream for RCB fans but also highlighted the legacy of early architects like Mallya who helped shape the franchise.
Also Read: IPL 2025 Final: Shreyas Iyer Vows to End Punjab Kings’ Title Drought Next Season
With this triumph, RCB joins the elite list of IPL champions, leaving Delhi Capitals and Punjab Kings as the only original teams from 2008 yet to lift the coveted trophy.
Tags:
Vijay Mallya, RCB wins IPL 2025, Virat Kohli, RCB IPL champions, IPL 2025 final, Chris Gayle, AB de Villiers, IPL history, RCB founder, IPL trophy Bengaluru