20-Year Nike Era Ends as Kylian Mbappé Joins Swiss Brand On
Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappé has severed his 20-year sponsorship relationship with Nike to sign a partnership with Swiss sportswear brand On as the headline ambassador for its new football division. Global sportswear executives and sports marketing sectors now face a major realignment in elite athlete endorsements as the Swiss performance company pushes beyond its traditional base in running and tennis into competitive football.
Mbappé Could Debut Custom Boots Against Villarreal Next Month Before 2027 Retail Launch
Commercial release of On’s first football boots is scheduled for 2027, with plans to follow with team kits, match wear, and general athletic apparel. On the pitch, Mbappé is expected to wear prototype On boots in competitive action as early as October 10 when Real Madrid host Villarreal, collaborating directly with On’s product design teams alongside former France international Thierry Henry, who joined the company as Director of Football in late 2025.
The strategic move mirrors On’s earlier entry into tennis in 2019, when 20-time Grand Slam champion Roger Federer joined the firm as an entrepreneur and co-owner to guide product development and global expansion.
