French football sensation Kylian Mbappé has concluded his extensive partnership with Nike, opting to align with the Swiss sportswear innovator On. This significant shift marks On's grand entrance into the highly competitive football market, aiming to redefine athletic gear with Mbappé's influence. The collaboration, announced on a recent Friday, promises a fresh direction for sports endorsements and product development within the industry.
Football Icon Kylian Mbappé Forges New Partnership with Swiss Brand On
In a groundbreaking announcement on Friday, September 18, 2026, French national team captain Kylian Mbappé confirmed his new endorsement deal with the Swiss sportswear company, On. This move concludes his long-standing association with Nike, a partnership that began early in his illustrious career. On, previously known for its expertise in running and tennis footwear, is now strategically pivoting into the football sector, with Mbappé at the forefront of this expansion.
A company statement revealed On's ambitious plans to launch its inaugural line of football boots in the coming year, leveraging Mbappé's invaluable insights and experience. Mbappé himself expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating, "What captivated me about On from the outset was the chance to collaboratively forge something entirely novel that will influence the future of the game. I aim to infuse my knowledge and perspective into our creations, pushing the boundaries of innovation while remaining true to the inherent joy of football. We share a common vision, and this is merely the genesis of our journey."
Further bolstering its football credentials, On has appointed legendary 1998 World Cup champion Thierry Henry as its new football director. While the financial specifics of Mbappé's contract were not disclosed, this partnership is a significant strategic investment for On, which counts tennis icon Roger Federer among its prominent shareholders. Federer himself made a similar move towards the end of his playing days, transitioning from Nike to partner with the Zurich-based brand.
Mbappé's departure represents a considerable setback for Nike, the world's foremost sportswear giant. Having cultivated a relationship with the Real Madrid forward since 2006, Nike had positioned him as a central figure in its football marketing efforts, a role previously held by Portuguese legend Cristiano Ronaldo, whose career is nearing its conclusion at 41. This trend follows the earlier shift of Spanish World Cup winner Lamine Yamal from Nike to Adidas in 2024. Despite these changes, Nike continues to maintain partnerships with other top football stars, including Norwegian striker Erling Haaland and Brazilian forward Vinicius Junior.
This significant endorsement switch underscores the dynamic and ever-evolving nature of sports sponsorships. It highlights how top athletes are increasingly seeking opportunities to not only represent brands but also actively contribute to product development and shape the future of their respective sports. For On, Mbappé's signing is a bold statement of intent, positioning them as a serious contender in the global football apparel market. For Mbappé, it represents a chance to leave a lasting legacy beyond the pitch, influencing the gear that future generations of footballers will wear. This partnership could herald a new era of athlete-brand collaborations, emphasizing innovation and shared vision over traditional endorsement deals.
