Kylian Mbappé Joins Swiss Brand On in Bold Move

Kylian Mbappé has cut ties with Nike and thrown his weight behind Swiss sportswear brand On, a move that signals a bold new play in football’s boot and apparel market.

The France captain’s switch ends a long-running association with Nike that began at the start of his professional career and helped turn him into one of the most marketable athletes on the planet.

On confirmed the deal on Friday, framing it as the company’s official step into football.

“Today, Swiss sportswear brand On announces its entry into football alongside football champion Kylian Mbappe, marking the beginning of the brand’s journey into the world’s biggest sport,” the company said in a statement.

This is not a cautious toe in the water. It is a full launch.

On also revealed that 1998 World Cup winner Thierry Henry has been appointed its football director, adding both pedigree and a sharp football brain to its project. Henry, now a coach and prominent pundit, will help steer the brand’s strategy as it tries to carve out space in a market dominated by long-established giants.

For Mbappé, the appeal went beyond a simple logo change.

“From the beginning, what drew me to On was the opportunity to build something entirely new together that will help shape tomorrow’s game,” he 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.”

The contract details remain under wraps, but the symbolism is clear: one of football’s biggest stars is betting on a younger, fast-growing brand with ambitions to disrupt.

Founded in 2010, On built its reputation in running and later in tennis, where it already boasts a heavyweight ally. Tennis legend Roger Federer is a shareholder and also made the jump from Nike to the Zurich-based company late in his playing career.

Now On is leaning on another global icon to crack a new frontier. With Mbappé on the pitch and Henry shaping the project from inside, the Swiss brand is no longer just an outsider in football.

It has walked through the door.