KYLIAN MBAPPE has ditched Nike to become the face of On.
The Real Madrid star had been endorsed by Nike since the age of nine but has now severed the relationship to play a central role in On’s first foray into football.
Kylian Mbappe has signed with On after a long association with Nike Credit: On Football
Roger Federer and Thierry Henry are two of the brand’s highest-profile faces Credit: On Football
The Swiss brand is only 17 years old and started off specialising in running trainers before branching out into tennis.
A landmark sponsorship deal with Roger Federer in 2019 played a key role in their booming growth.
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But Mbappe is also a mammoth coup as they prepare to enter the football boots market.
The 27-year-old was convinced to make the shock switch by fellow Frenchman Thierry Henry, who has been working as On’s Director of Football since last year.
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Details of the deal that brought Mbappe onboard are undisclosed but, like Federer, he has reportedly been given equity in the company.
It is understood that Mbappe’s latest Nike contract, which expired this summer, netted him £13million a year.
On’s boots will not hit the retail market until 2027 but Mbappe is expected to be seen playing in them within the next few weeks.
After competing with the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo and Erling Haaland for the spotlight at Nike, Mbappe will now be the undisputed poster boy for his new sponsors, who are set to give him crucial input over their boot designs.
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Mbappe has been given equity in On as part of the deal that brought him onboard Credit: On Football
Henry has been working as On’s Director of Football since last year Credit: On Football
He said: “From the beginning, what drew me to On was the opportunity to build something entirely new together that will help shape tomorrow’s game.
“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 founder David Allemann added: “Football doesn’t need another sportswear brand to do more of the same. Football needs new ideas and a challenge to what is possible.
“When we enter a sport, we want to be the brand of the future – through true innovation and contemporary design.
“With Kylian we have the perfect partner to dream what football can become.”
Nike bid Mbappe a classy farewell, writing: “Kylian’s journey with Nike began when he was nine years old.
“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.
“As he moves into the next phase of his career, we wish him continued success for what comes next.”
