'When I Founded RCB...': Fugitive Vijay Mallya's first reaction after RCB's maiden win
PTC News Desk: After putting an end to 18 year long wait, Royal Challengers Bengaluru finally lifted the coveted trophy winning the IPL tournament for the first time. Mocked and trolled for years for unsuccessful stints in the T20 league despite being one of the most popular franchises, the RCB final had the honour of tasting success.
Vijay Mallya was the original force behind Royal Challengers Bengaluru, becoming the franchise's first owner during the inaugural IPL season in 2008. He had the distinction of selecting a young Virat Kohli for the team and was also instrumental in bringing star players like AB de Villiers and Chris Gayle on board in the years that followed.
As Kohli finally lifted the IPL trophy, both Gayle and de Villiers were present at the stadium to witness and share in the long-awaited triumph.
"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 !!," Mallya posted on X (formerly Twitter), congratulating RCB for the victory.
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 another post, Mallya wrote: "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 DeVillers 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!"
With RCB's victory, now Delhi capitals and Punjab Kings remain the only two franchises to have been part of the tournament and not ifted the trophy.
- With inputs from agencies
