Kylian Mbappé has concluded his two-decade partnership with Nike after agreeing to a footwear deal with Swiss rival On.
The sportswear and lifestyle company, previously known mainly for running and tennis products, is preparing a significant expansion into football next year. It has also named Thierry Henry as its director of football.
Roger Federer, who moved to the brand after leaving Nike near the end of his playing career, owns a stake in the Zurich-based business. Mbappé is also set to become a shareholder.
“What attracted me to On from the outset was the chance to create something completely new together and help influence the future of the sport,” said the France captain. “I want to contribute my knowledge and viewpoint to our work, explore new possibilities through innovation and remain faithful to the enjoyment of football. We share the same ambition, and this is just the start.”
On is a recent arrival in the football industry and introduced its first boot, the Lightspray Prototype, this week. The footwear is expected to reach the wider consumer market next year, followed by a range of training apparel.
Mbappé left when his contract expired after the World Cup, dealing a major setback to Nike. The company also saw Barcelona and Spain winger Lamine Yamal join Adidas two years earlier. The 27-year-old Mbappé has featured prominently in numerous Nike advertising campaigns.
“Kylian began his relationship with Nike at the age of nine,” the company said. “During almost 20 years together, we experienced occasions that influenced the sport, and he became a key figure within Nike Football. We take great pride in everything we accomplished together, both on the field and away from it.”
Nike and Adidas remain the leading brands in football footwear, with their boots used by more than 40% of the players at this summer’s World Cup, based on figures gathered by retailer Fútbol Emotion. Puma represents roughly 10% of the market.
Other aspiring competitors, including Under Armour, New Balance and Skechers—the brand supplying boots to England captain Harry Kane—have found it difficult to establish a strong presence in the retail sector.
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