French captain Kylian Mbappé has announced the end of his long-term collaboration with Nike and his move to the Swiss sports brand On. The company officially announced this on Friday.
The company's statement noted that On's entry into the football market is marked by the brand's beginning journey in the world's largest sport, thanks to the participation of champion Kylian Mbappé.
Furthermore, On announced the appointment of Thierry Henry, the 1998 World Cup winner, as Football Director. The company plans to release its first football boots next year.
Mbappé shared his motivations, stating that he was attracted to On's desire to create something entirely new that will help shape the football of the future. He emphasized his wish to bring his experience and perspective to the creation process, promote innovation, and maintain a love for football.
On, which is actively entering the football market through the signing of Mbappé, did not disclose the financial terms of the contract. Founded in 2010, On initially specialized in running and tennis shoes, and Roger Federer is among its shareholders.
Federer also left Nike towards the end of his career to join the Zurich-based company. Mbappé's departure was a significant blow to Nike, the world's largest sportswear company, which had collaborated with the Real Madrid forward since 2006, making him one of the leading figures in its football business.
The 2018 World Cup winner and tournament top scorer with 22 goals gradually became Nike's main football ambassador, replacing Portuguese player Cristiano Ronaldo, who is approaching the end of his career at the age of 41.
This transition followed the departure of Lamine Yamal, the recent World Cup winner with the Spanish national team, who moved from Nike to Adidas in 2024. Nike continues to have several major football stars under contract, including Norwegian forward Erling Haaland and Brazilian forward Vinícius Júnior.