'I picked King Kohli…': Vijay Mallya reacts to RCB's first-ever IPL title win

Eighteen seasons. One dream. And finally — Royal Challengers Bengaluru are IPL champions.

Advertisement

As RCB lifted their long-awaited maiden IPL trophy after a thrilling win over Punjab Kings in Ahmedabad on Tuesday, former franchise owner Vijay Mallya shared an emotional throwback — remembering the moment he picked a young Virat Kohli at the 2008 auction.

“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,” Mallya posted on X.

Back in 2008, Mallya bought the RCB franchise for USD 111.6 million, and made one of the most iconic picks in IPL history — signing Kohli, then a rising U-19 World Cup star.

Despite losing ownership in 2016 after defaulting on major bank loans, Mallya remains credited with shaping the early identity of RCB, bringing in stars like Chris Gayle, AB de Villiers, Jacques Kallis, and Anil Kumble.

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

“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,” he wrote.

“Congratulations and thanks again to all who made my dream come true. RCB fans are the very best and they deserve the IPL trophy,” Mallya added, using the fan-favourite chant: “Ee Sala Cup Bengaluru baruthe! (This year, the cup is ours)”

Now residing in the UK and still a fugitive in India, Mallya congratulated the entire RCB team management for the 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!!”

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