Real Madrid and France forward Kylian Mbappe has ended his long-standing partnership with Nike after nearly two decades and signed a new deal with Swiss sportswear company On.
Mbappe’s relationship with Nike began in 2006 when he was just nine years old. The forward eventually became one of the brand’s most recognisable football ambassadors and featured prominently in its global campaigns and Mercurial boot range.
The new agreement represents a major step for On as the company expands beyond its traditional focus on running and tennis and prepares to establish itself in football. The company plans to launch its first football boots commercially in 2027.
Financial details of Mbappe’s agreement have not been disclosed. However, Reuters reported that the deal includes both cash and equity, meaning the France captain will also become a shareholder in the Swiss company.
Mbappe said the opportunity to help develop something new in football was a major reason behind his decision to join On. He said he wanted to bring his experience and perspective to the company's product development while helping explore new ideas for the sport.
The move also links Mbappe with tennis great Roger Federer, who is a shareholder and strategic partner of On. Federer previously ended his own long association with Nike before joining the Swiss company.
On has also appointed former France and Arsenal striker Thierry Henry as its director of football. Henry is expected to play a role in helping the company develop its football business as it prepares to compete with established brands such as Nike, Adidas and Puma.
Nike acknowledged Mbappe's departure, saying the player's journey with the company began when he was nine and that it was proud of what they achieved together on and off the pitch. The American sportswear giant has also recently seen Spain and Barcelona star Lamine Yamal move to Adidas.
Despite leaving Nike for his personal sponsorship, Mbappe will still be connected to the brand through the French national team, whose kit partnership with Nike has been extended through 2033-34.
For On, securing Mbappe gives the company a major global football figure as it enters a market dominated by established sportswear brands. His involvement is expected to extend beyond simply wearing the company's boots, with plans for him to contribute to product development and the brand's vision for football.
Mbappe's switch therefore marks the end of a partnership that began during his childhood while opening a new chapter in his commercial career as On prepares for its first major push into football.