RCB’s First IPL Trophy Breaks All Viewership Records

After 18 long years of waiting, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) finally lifted their first-ever Indian Premier League (IPL) trophy, and the country celebrated with them in record-breaking numbers. The IPL 2025 final, played against Punjab Kings (PBKS) at Ahmedabad’s Narendra Modi Stadium, wasn’t just a cricket match—it became a digital phenomenon, smashing all previous viewership records and making history on JioHotstar.

RCB’s Emotional Triumph

RCB’s journey to their maiden IPL title has been filled with heartbreaks, near-misses, and loyal fans hoping for that one magical season. On June 3, 2025, that dream finally came true. Virat Kohli, the face of the franchise since its inception, was visibly moved after the win, dropping to his knees and celebrating with his teammates. “I have given this team my youth, my prime, and everything I have and finally, this moment has come. It is an unbelievable feeling,” Kohli said after the match.

A Final to Remember

The final against Punjab Kings was a nail-biter from the start. RCB batted first and by the 10th over, JioHotstar had already clocked over 20 crore views. As the innings progressed, the excitement grew with RCB finishing at 190 for 9. Punjab Kings put up a strong fight but RCB’s bowling attack held firm, sealing a memorable win. The drama on the field was matched by the surge in digital viewers with JioHotstar recording a staggering 67.8 crore cumulative views by the end of the match.

What Do These Viewership Numbers Mean?

It’s important to note that these are not unique viewers but total views, which means if a fan tuned in multiple times or switched devices, each session was counted. Even so, the scale is unprecedented. The IPL 2025 final’s 67.8 crore views on JioHotstar surpassed even the most-watched India-Pakistan ICC Championship clash earlier this year. During the first over alone, more than 9 crore people streamed the match live, and the numbers kept climbing with every wicket and boundary.

IPL 2025: A Season of Records

This year’s IPL was a blockbuster not just for RCB but for the league as a whole. The opening weekend itself saw 137 crore views on JioHotstar, a 35% jump from last year. Throughout the season, matches featuring RCB consistently pulled massive audiences, with their games against Kolkata Knight Riders and Chennai Super Kings also ranking among the most-watched. The league’s popularity has pushed franchise values to new heights, with top teams like RCB now valued at up to $2 billion.

The Power of Digital India

The record-breaking viewership is a testament to the power of digital platforms in India. JioHotstar’s seamless streaming experience, interactive features, and wide accessibility have changed how fans watch cricket. The platform’s ability to handle millions of concurrent streams and offer custom viewing options has made IPL matches must-see events for fans of all ages.

What’s Next for RCB and IPL?

With their first trophy in hand, RCB has finally shed the “underachievers” tag. The win is a reward for years of persistence, loyal fans, and the leadership of players like Virat Kohli. For the IPL, the 2025 season has set a new standard for sports entertainment in India, blending on-field drama with digital innovation.

RCB’s victory in IPL 2025 will be remembered not just for the cricket but for uniting millions of fans in a shared digital celebration. With 67.8 crore views on JioHotstar, the final proved that cricket is more than a game in India—it’s a festival that brings the whole country together, both in stadiums and on screens