Kylian Mbappe has made a major change to his commercial career, ending his long-standing partnership with Nike and signing a new deal with Swiss sportswear company On.
The France captain announced the move on Friday, with the agreement positioning Mbappe at the center of On’s planned expansion into football. The company is preparing to launch its first football boots in 2027, giving Mbappe a significant role in the development of its new football range.
Kylian Mbappe Joins On After Long Nike Partnership
Mbappe’s relationship with Nike dates back to 2006, when the French forward was only nine years old. Over the years, he became one of Nike’s most recognizable football ambassadors.
His move to On represents a major change for the Real Madrid star, who will now work directly with the Swiss company’s product teams. His responsibilities are expected to include helping develop and test future football footwear and apparel.
Mbappe will also serve as a global ambassador for On, with the partnership extending beyond football to areas including movement, performance and design.
The financial terms of the agreement have not been fully disclosed. However, the deal reportedly includes both cash and equity, highlighting the broader commercial significance of Mbappe’s partnership with the rapidly growing sportswear brand.
On Prepares to Launch Football Boots in 2027
On has traditionally been known for its running and tennis products, but the company is now making a significant push into football.
The planned 2027 launch of its first football boots will mark a new chapter for the Swiss brand. Mbappe’s involvement gives On an established global football star to help shape and promote its entry into the market.
Mbappe is expected to collaborate with On’s product teams throughout the development and testing process. The partnership could therefore influence the design and performance characteristics of the company’s first football products.
On has also added Barcelona women’s midfielder Sydney Joy Schertenleib to its football portfolio.
Thierry Henry Joins On as Director of Football
On has strengthened its football plans further by appointing former France forward Thierry Henry as its Director of Football.
Henry had already worked with the company for the previous year before taking on the new position. His experience in elite football adds another prominent figure to On’s growing football operation.
The combination of Mbappe and Henry gives the company two major names connected to French football as it prepares for its football footwear launch.
Mbappe and the Ballon d’Or Race
Mbappe has also been involved in the conversation surrounding the 2026 Ballon d’Or, with Lamine Yamal emerging as another major contender.
In comments reported by AS, Mbappe praised Yamal’s ability and wished the Barcelona star well in his career. At the same time, Mbappe made clear that he wants the Ballon d’Or to return to Real Madrid.
“My best advocate is my own feet,” Mbappe said, emphasizing his belief that his performances should speak for themselves. He also expressed his desire to bring the award back to Real Madrid and its supporters.
Yamal has subsequently said he deserves to finish ahead of Mbappe in the Ballon d’Or race after his season with Barcelona and Spain.
Roger Federer Connection
On’s expansion into football follows the company’s growing presence in other major sports.
Tennis legend Roger Federer became an investor in On in 2019 after ending his partnership with Nike. His involvement helped strengthen the company’s profile in tennis, and the brand is now looking to establish a similar presence in football.
Mbappe’s arrival is therefore another significant step in On’s strategy to build its identity beyond its traditional running-focused business.
What Mbappe’s On Deal Means
For Mbappe, the partnership represents more than simply a change in footwear sponsorship. He will have an active role in developing products while also helping On establish itself in football.
For On, signing one of the world’s most recognizable footballers ahead of its 2027 boot launch provides a high-profile foundation for its entry into the sport.
The full value of the Mbappe deal remains undisclosed, but the inclusion of equity indicates that the relationship goes beyond a conventional endorsement agreement.
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