 "RCB won their first-ever IPL title after 18 years. Image: Reuters")
After 18 long years of heartbreak, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) finally clinched their maiden IPL title on Tuesday night. The thrilling 6-run win over Punjab Kings (PBKS) in the IPL 2025 final at the Narendra Modi Stadium sparked wild celebrations, not just among fans, but also cricket legends and political leaders across the country.
Cricketing legends react
As soon as RCB sealed the win, social media exploded with congratulatory messages. From former cricketers like Sachin Tendulkar, Suresh Raina and Faf du Plessis to political leaders, including Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah and BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla, tributes poured in for Virat Kohli and his team for finally ending the title drought.
Impact Shorts
More ShortsPolitical leaders join in
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said, “Congratulations to Royal Challengers Bengaluru on a historic IPL triumph. The dream has finally come true – Ee Sala Cup Namde!” “From electrifying performances to unshakable spirit, this triumph has ignited the pride of Karnataka and thrilled fans across the world,” he said in a post on X.
Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar said, “This is more than a win - it’s an emotional moment for the entire RCB Army.” “Ee Sala Cup Namde! Huge congratulations to RCB on this unforgettable, historic victory in the IPLFinals. 18 years of passion, loyalty, and never giving up - and tonight, it all came together!” Shivakumar said on X.
Congress MP Shashi Throor wrote: “First thing I did upon landing in Washington was to check the #IPLFinal score. Very happy for @imVkohli that he #18 laid his hands on the trophy after 18 years of service! Congratulations #RCB!"
RCB finally got to lift the trophy after finishing runners-up on three occasions previously.
Stating that he was proud of the team for making history, Union Minister and JD(S) leader H D Kumaraswamy said this win also belongs to every RCB fan who never gave up.
“What a moment for Bengaluru, Karnataka and cricket lovers across the nation! RCB emerges victorious a testament to grit, belief, and the spirit of Karnataka,” he said.
State BJP president B Y Vijayendra said, “This win is personal for every fan who stood by RCB through the ups and downs, who believed, cheered, and never gave up.
“What a stellar end to a stellar campaign by RCB. It took us 18 years to reach here, but we made it and that’s what truly matters…..Here’s to the spirit of Play Bold and the RCB family, this is just the beginning!” he posted on the microblogging platform.
BJP’s R Ashoka, leader of Opposition in the Karnataka Legislative Assembly, said, “18 years of hope, heartbreak & hustle — the dream is finally real! Congratulations RCB! Champions at last!” Governor Thaawar Chand Gehlot also congratulated the team and said, “Heartiest congratulations to the players, coaches, and loyal fans. Wishing RCB continued success in the journey ahead.”
(With agency inputs)