More than a sponsorship: Why Kylian Mbappé left Nike for On

France national team captain Kylian Mbappé has ended his two decade association with Nike to sign a landmark strategic partnership with Swiss sportswear brand On.

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A historic departure from Nike

Mbappé’s contract with the American sportswear giant officially expired on 31 July 2026. Despite extensive negotiations to extend the agreement, the Real Madrid star opted to pursue a completely new path rather than remain with the brand that had sponsored him since he was seven years old.

Announcing the separation, Mbappé shared an emotional farewell message on his Instagram account, reflecting on their long journey together.

“Twenty years together... the same dream and the same passion. Nike was by my side at every step, in my beginnings, my victories, my defeats and even in my World Cup triumph” Mbappé wrote.

The French forward added:

“We designed boots that tell my story and my origins, and you gave me the opportunity to inspire millions of children. Thank you for the trust and the memories. This story is part of my identity but today a new chapter begins and just like when I was a child, I am still dreaming”

More than a traditional sponsorship

Rather than joining established football market rivals like Adidas or Puma, Mbappé's decision to partner with On, a brand traditionally known for its running and tennis footwear, represents a major industry shift.

Crucially, the agreement is structured as a strategic partnership rather than a standard endorsement deal. Mbappé has acquired a financial stake in the Zurich-based company, becoming an actual shareholder.

Furthermore, the agreement grants him a leadership role alongside the product teams giving him direct creative control over the design and development of future football boots and apparel.

Thierry Henry's crucial role

Financial incentives and design autonomy were not the only factors driving the move. The involvement of French football legend Thierry Henry played a decisive role in convincing Mbappé to commit to the project.

With Henry recently appointed as On's Director of Football to oversee the brand's expansion into the sport, Mbappé found a compelling connection. Having a revered French icon guiding the strategic vision provided the necessary sporting weight and reassurance that the Swiss brand's long term football project was serious.

The birth of Mbappé the businessman

By leaving the comfort of a traditional mega contract with an established heavyweight, Mbappé is signaling a clear evolution in his career off the pitch.

He is transitioning from a traditional brand ambassador into a corporate decision maker and equity owner.

This calculated move demonstrates that the forward is planning his long-term business portfolio with the same ambition he applies inside the penalty area.

What happens next?

On is preparing to officially launch its first commercial line of football boots in 2027.

In the meantime, Mbappé will work closely with the company's research labs in Switzerland to test and refine prototypes. Fans and the wider sportswear industry will now be watching closely to see when the forward first debuts the new Swiss-engineered boots on the pitch during the current European club season.

Khaled Hegazy |

Editorar, en

Journaliste sportif spécialisé dans la couverture du football et la création de contenu numérique, alliant expérience éditoriale et expertise des médias sociaux.

Related teams and leagues

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