Kylian Mbappé Joins Swiss Brand On in Major Sponsorship Shift

In a significant shake-up for the sportswear industry, French football icon Kylian Mbappé has officially signed a partnership with the Swiss brand On. This move marks the conclusion of a two-decade-long relationship between the Real Madrid forward and Nike, signaling a new chapter for both the athlete and the rapidly growing footwear company.

On, which counts tennis legend Roger Federer among its shareholders, is leveraging this high-profile signing to spearhead its entry into the global football market. The company has confirmed that the collaboration is part of a broader strategic initiative to launch its first line of football boots in 2027. Mbappé is expected to play a central role in the development and testing of these new products.

To further bolster its football division, On has also appointed French football legend Thierry Henry as its director of football. The combination of Mbappé’s star power and Henry’s tactical expertise underscores the brand's serious ambitions to compete with established industry giants in the sport.

While the specific financial details of the agreement remain undisclosed, reports indicate that the contract includes a mix of cash and equity components. Mbappé expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, noting his desire to contribute his experience toward creating innovative gear that captures the true spirit of the game.

For Nike, the departure of one of the world's most recognizable athletes represents a notable loss in a competitive market. As On continues to transition from its roots in running and tennis into the world's most popular sport, the addition of Mbappé serves as a definitive statement of its intent to challenge the status quo.