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Kylian Mbappé Leaves Nike for Swiss Brand On, Marking the Company’s First Foray into Football

By Drooid · · How we work

Core Event

On 18 September 2026, French captain Kylian Mbappé announced the end of a two-decade partnership with Nike and signed a new endorsement deal with Swiss sportswear company On. The agreement makes Mbappé the global ambassador for On’s newly created football division and gives him a role in product development. On simultaneously appointed former France and Arsenal striker Thierry Henry as its director of football.

Background & Context

Mbappé joined Nike in 2006 at age 8 and became one of the brand’s marquee football faces, appearing in multiple Mercurial campaigns and winning the 2018 World Cup. Nike’s recent sales slowdown, especially in China, and a share-price decline of roughly 50 % over the past year have prompted a strategic reset under CEO Elliott Hill. On, founded in 2010 and previously focused on running and tennis, leveraged Roger Federer’s 2019 investment to expand into new categories.

Data & Statistics

  • Mbappé, 27, is the all-time leading scorer in FIFA World Cup history with 22 goals.
  • His Nike contract expired on 31 July 2026, ending a 20-year relationship.
  • On’s U.S.-listed shares rose 0.37 % to $27.43 after the announcement (Benzinga).
  • On plans to launch its first football boots in 2027, using its proprietary LightSpray technology.

Official Statements & Responses

The firm said Mbappé will work directly with its product teams to develop football footwear and apparel.

Conflicting Reports & Gaps

The financial structure of Mbappé’s deal is described differently across sources. Reuters reported a cash-plus-equity package without detail, while The Athletic noted an equity stake but did not disclose its size. On’s own announcement omitted any monetary figures. The timeline for Mbappé’s on-field footwear remains unclear; the first commercial boots are slated for 2027, but it is unknown what shoes he will wear in matches before then.

Verbatim Quotes

  • “From the beginning, what drew me to On was the opportunity to build something entirely new together that will help shape tomorrow's game,” — Kylian Mbappé, France captain
  • “Football doesn't need another sportswear brand to do more of the same,” — David Allemann, founder and co-CEO of On

What’s Next

On’s roadmap calls for the debut of its LightSpray football boots in 2027, followed by a broader rollout of kits, teamwear, and training apparel. The company will continue to involve Mbappé, Henry and Swiss international Sydney Schertenleib in product testing and development. Investors will watch Nike’s turnaround under Hill and On’s ability to translate its running-category success into the highly competitive football market.