A new chapter is opening off the pitch for Kylian Mbappé. The France captain and Real Madrid forward has ended his long association with Nike to sign a 10-year global ambassador agreement with Swiss sportswear company On, while also taking an ownership stake in the business.
Key takeaways
- Mbappé’s Nike deal expired on 31 July, clearing the way for his move to On.
- The 27-year-old will be an On shareholder as well as a global ambassador.
- He will help develop On’s future football boots and apparel range.
- Thierry Henry has joined On as its director of football.
- On does not expect to sell its football products before 2027.
Mbappé brings a major name to On’s football launch
Financial terms of Mbappé’s agreement have not been disclosed, but the partnership goes beyond a conventional endorsement. Alongside the commercial element, the 2018 World Cup winner will be involved in shaping football footwear and clothing for a brand making its first serious move into the game.
The announcement comes shortly before the France squad convenes. It creates an unusual split between Mbappé’s personal equipment arrangement and that of the national team, whose Nike partnership is worth more than €100 million a year.
On was founded in 2010 and built its reputation in running, notably through shoes featuring its distinctive cushioned sole construction. The company is now using Mbappé’s profile to establish a presence in football, with the forward potentially set to wear On boots in the near future.
Henry appointed to guide football project
Thierry Henry will lead the sporting side of the company’s expansion after being appointed director of football. Like Mbappé, the former France striker spent much of his playing career associated with Nike.
Henry’s responsibilities will include contributing to On Football product design and working with athletes connected to the brand. The combination of Mbappé and Henry gives the Swiss company two of French football’s most recognisable figures as it enters a market dominated by established rivals.
The first boot linked to Mbappé will use On’s LightSpray technology, introduced by the company in 2024. The process assembles the boot without glue, with the aim of reducing material use and waste while producing an especially light model.
Supporters will have to wait before buying the new range, however. No On Football boots or clothing are scheduled to reach the market before 2027.
On will also continue its existing relationship with Sydney Schertenleib, the Swiss Barcelona midfielder who has been signed to the brand since December.
