Vijay Mallya, the former owner of Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), has expressed his elation and pride following the team's recent victory in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025. Mallya, who acquired the RCB franchise in 2008 for USD 111.6 million, revealed that his vision extended beyond merely owning a cricket team; he aimed to create a brand that resonated with excellence both on and off the field.

In a recent interview, Mallya emphasized that his intention was to establish RCB as more than just a cricket team. He envisioned a lifestyle brand that captured the vibrant and dynamic spirit of Bangalore. This ambition influenced every aspect of the team, from the on-field performance to the off-field experiences for fans. Mallya deliberately incorporated elements of glamour, including after-parties, cheerleaders, and extensive fan engagement activities, to make RCB the most exciting franchise in the IPL.

Mallya proudly recalls his pivotal role in spotting and selecting Virat Kohli during the inaugural IPL draft for Under-19 players. He remembers being present at the auction and immediately choosing Kohli, influenced by the young player's impressive performance for India in the Under-19 World Cup 2008. Mallya considered Kohli a natural choice to lead RCB, recognizing his talent and potential early on.

"I was the one who picked Virat Kohli," Mallya stated, emphasizing his direct involvement in bringing Kohli to RCB. He noted Kohli's energy and talent, recognizing him as one of the greatest Indian cricketers. Mallya also highlighted the significance of Kohli's loyalty to the franchise, as he has remained with RCB since the inception of the IPL in 2008.

Mallya also considers the signings of other cricketing stars like Chris Gayle and AB de Villiers as key moments in RCB's history. He believes that these players, along with Kohli, formed an integral part of the team's identity and contributed significantly to its popularity and success over the years.

While Mallya is no longer the owner of RCB, having lost ownership in 2016, his contributions to the team's foundation are still recognized. He played a crucial role in building a team that not only performed on the field but also created a strong connection with its fans. The former owner said that he wanted RCB to be a brand that stood for excellence, not just on the field but off it too. That's why he tied it to Royal Challenge, one of their top-selling liquor brands, to give it that bold identity.

Mallya reflected on the long-awaited IPL trophy finally arriving in Bengaluru after 18 years. He congratulated the entire RCB team management for their superb campaign and highlighted the well-balanced team, outstanding coaching, and support staff. He expressed his gratitude to everyone who made his dream come true, acknowledging the unwavering support of RCB fans.