Former RCB owner Vijay Mallya recounts team’s journey after maiden Indian Premier League title

Dubai: It was the moment Royal Challengers Bengaluru fans had waited nearly two decades for — and when it finally arrived, even the team’s long-absent former owner couldn’t stay silent.

Vijay Mallya, the fugitive businessman who founded the RCB franchise in 2008, took to social media to celebrate their historic IPL title win on Tuesday night. As Virat Kohli and his teammates edged Punjab Kings by six runs in a tense final in Ahmedabad, Mallya posted an emotional message tracing the franchise’s journey from hopeful beginnings to long-awaited glory.

“When I founded RCB it was my dream that the IPL trophy should come to Bengaluru,” Mallya wrote on X. “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.”

While Mallya’s association with the franchise ended years ago, and he remains embroiled in legal troubles, his emotional investment in the team clearly endures. “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!”

Now, as the team heads home, the city of Bengaluru is preparing to celebrate the long-awaited moment in style. According to a statement from the franchise, RCB will arrive at HAL Airport on Wednesday, after departing Ahmedabad in the morning.

The players will then meet Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah at Vidhana Soudha, before setting off on a grand open-top bus parade to M. Chinnaswamy Stadium — their home ground — where a public celebration with fans is scheduled from 6pm onwards.

Tuesday night’s win marked the end of a painful drought for one of the IPL’s most popular teams. Kohli, fittingly wearing his iconic No. 18 shirt in Season 18, top-scored with 43 as RCB posted 190/9. Krunal Pandya then led the bowling effort with 2 for 17 as Punjab were restricted to 184/7.

And just like that, the cup is finally coming home — to Bengaluru.