Kylian Mbappé has severed his long-standing relationship with Nike, agreeing to a new boot deal with the Swiss company On, which is preparing a significant push into the football market. The move brings to a close a partnership that began when the France captain was just nine years old and lasted nearly 20 years.
On, a brand best known for its work in running and tennis apparel, is set to expand into football next year, and the signing of one of the sport's most recognizable stars marks a major statement of intent. As part of the deal, Mbappé will not only wear the company's boots but will also become a shareholder in the Zurich-based firm.
The 27-year-old striker explained his decision to join the challenger brand, citing the chance to be part of something new in the sport. "From the beginning, what drew me to On was the opportunity to build something entirely new together that will help shape tomorrow's game," Mbappé said. "I want to bring my experience and perspective into what we create, push what's possible through innovation, and always stay true to the joy of football. We have a shared dream, and this is only the beginning."
On's ambitions in football have been building for some time. The company has already brought in Thierry Henry as its football director, a move that signals serious intent to establish credibility in a sport long dominated by two giants. Tennis legend Roger Federer, who himself left Nike late in his playing career to join On, is a shareholder in the company as well, adding another layer of star power to its growing football project.
This week, On unveiled its first football boot, the Lightspray Prototype, which the company says will reach the mass market next year. A move into training kit is expected to follow as the brand builds out its football offering beyond footwear.
Mbappé's exit represents a notable setback for Nike, which has now lost two of the sport's most prominent young stars in recent years. The American sportswear giant previously saw Barcelona and Spain forward Lamine Yamal sign with Adidas two years ago. Mbappé, who has been central to numerous Nike advertising campaigns over the years, joining a Nike rival further underscores the shifting dynamics at the top of the football boot market.
Nike acknowledged the end of the partnership in a statement, reflecting on the history shared with the player. "Kylian's journey with Nike began when he was nine years old," the company said. "Over nearly two decades, we've shared moments that shaped the game and he has been an important part of Nike Football. We are proud of what we achieved together on and off the pitch."
Despite Mbappé's switch, Nike and Adidas remain overwhelmingly dominant in the football boot industry. Data compiled by retailer Fútbol Emotion showed that more than 40% of players at this summer's World Cup wore boots from either Nike or Adidas, with Puma accounting for roughly 10% of the market. Other challenger brands, including Under Armour, New Balance and Skechers—the latter worn by England captain Harry Kane—have historically struggled to gain significant traction against the established leaders.
Whether On can leverage Mbappé's global profile to carve out a meaningful share of the football market remains to be seen, but the signing represents one of the most high-profile boot deals in recent memory for a brand attempting to break into the sport.
Based on reporting from The Guardian.