Mbappé ends two-decade Nike tie-up to join Swiss brand On
The Real Madrid and France star has signed a deal that includes equity, marking a strategic pivot for the Swiss sportswear company as it enters the football market.
Kylian Mbappé has concluded a sponsorship relationship with Nike that spanned two decades, opting instead to join Swiss sportswear company On. The Real Madrid and France international announced the move on Friday, ending a partnership that began in 2006 when the player was just nine years old. The decision represents a significant shift in the athlete’s commercial affiliations and a major acquisition for the Swiss brand.
The agreement, which was not disclosed in terms of total value or duration, includes both cash and equity components. According to Reuters, the inclusion of equity grants Mbappé a financial stake in On. This structure suggests a long-term institutional commitment rather than a standard endorsement deal, aligning the player’s interests with the company’s broader market expansion.
Mbappé will serve as a global ambassador for On, working directly with the company’s product teams to develop and test future football footwear and apparel. The role positions the player as a key figure in On’s attempt to expand beyond the running and tennis markets that have historically defined the brand’s identity.
In a social media statement titled "Dream On, Football," Mbappé reflected on his early days playing with friends until sunset before football became his career. "I have followed this dream for as long as I can remember," he wrote, framing the move as a continuation of his personal journey in the sport.
On has also appointed former France and Arsenal star Thierry Henry as its director of soccer. This appointment underscores the company’s intent to build a dedicated football division, leveraging high-profile talent to establish credibility in a competitive market. The company plans to launch its first soccer cleats in 2027, a timeline that allows for product development under Mbappé’s guidance.
The move highlights the increasing importance of football in the global sportswear industry, with brands seeking to diversify their portfolios. For On, securing one of the sport’s most recognizable stars is a strategic step in its first major push into soccer.
