Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have finally lifted their maiden IPL trophy, breaking an 18-year-long drought with a thrilling win over Punjab Kings in the IPL 2025 final. As the team celebrated this historic achievement, one of the most talked-about reactions came from their first-ever owner, Vijay Mallya, who expressed his heartfelt emotions on social media.
RCB’s journey in the Indian Premier League has been a rollercoaster ride since the franchise’s inception in 2008. Despite boasting cricketing legends like Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers, and Chris Gayle, the team had failed to cross the final hurdle — until now.
On Tuesday, the much-loved franchise finally turned dreams into reality with a 6-run victory over Punjab Kings. This triumph ignited celebrations not only in Bengaluru but across India and among the global cricketing fraternity.
Vijay Mallya’s Nostalgic Tribute Goes Viral
Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Vijay Mallya, who bought the RCB franchise during the inaugural IPL season, posted multiple emotional tributes. “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!!” wrote Mallya.
In another nostalgic post, Mallya said: “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…”
Mallya, now a fugitive facing legal proceedings, is remembered as the man who laid the foundation of RCB. It was under his ownership that RCB signed a young Virat Kohli in 2008 — a decision that changed the franchise’s future. Kohli has remained loyal to the team for 18 seasons, becoming the face of RCB and a symbol of resilience.
As the final whistle blew and the trophy was finally clinched, Kohli was seen dropping to his knees, tears streaming down his face — an image that has since gone viral and has come to symbolize RCB’s emotional journey.
RCB had come close before — finishing as runners-up in 2009, 2011, and 2016. But 2025 was different. Led by a united squad and backed by a passionate fan base, the team embraced its “Ee Sala Cup Namde” (“This year, the cup is ours”) slogan and turned it into reality.
Tributes poured in from across the cricketing world. The Mumbai Indians, Chennai Super Kings, Kolkata Knight Riders, and others congratulated Royal Challengers Bengaluru on social media. KKR summed it up best: “EE SALA CUP NIMDE, CONGRATULATIONS.”
While Mallya’s reaction drew significant attention, fans also praised RCB’s support staff, new additions to the squad, and their performance throughout the season. Cricket analysts highlighted the team’s balance, strategy, and mental toughness — key ingredients missing in previous campaigns.
AB de Villiers and Chris Gayle were present at the venue, witnessing Kohli finally lifting the IPL trophy — completing a storyline that began with Mallya’s decisions over a decade ago.
A Dream Fulfilled for RCB Fans and Former Owner
“I also had the honour of picking Chris Gayle the Universe Boss and Mr. 360 AB de Villiers who remain an indelible part of Royal Challengers Bengaluru history. Finally, the IPL trophy arrives in Bengaluru. Congratulations and thanks again to all who made my dream come true,” added Mallya.
This victory now leaves Delhi Capitals and Punjab Kings as the only two franchises from the original 2008 cohort yet to win an IPL title.
For the millions of Royal Challengers Bengaluru fans — who endured years of heartbreak, memes, and “chokers” tags — the win was more than just a title. It was the vindication of unwavering faith. The team that was mocked and doubted has now earned its redemption.
With a legacy now cemented, the future for RCB looks brighter than ever.
