Kylian Mbappé has officially left Nike to join Swiss sportswear company On, marking a major development in the global football footwear market. The French superstar will become the face of On’s entry into football, with the company preparing to launch its first football boots in 2027.

The move brings an end to Mbappé’s long-standing association with Nike and places one of the most recognisable footballers in the world at the centre of On’s ambitious plans to establish itself in the sport.

Mbappé Becomes Face of On Football

On confirmed that Mbappé has joined the company as it prepares to enter football for the first time. The French forward will play a central role in the development and promotion of the brand’s football products.

Mbappé has been associated with Nike since childhood and became one of the major faces of the sportswear giant’s football division. He was particularly prominent in Nike’s Mercurial range and featured in several major advertising campaigns and signature products.

His decision to move to On therefore represents a significant change in the football sponsorship landscape.

The financial terms of Mbappé’s agreement with On have not been publicly disclosed.

On Plans First Football Boots for 2027

On is best known for its running shoes and performance footwear, but the Swiss company is now expanding into football.

The company plans to introduce its first football boots in 2027, using technology developed specifically for the demands of the sport.

One of the technologies expected to play a role in On’s football products is LightSpray, a manufacturing technology designed to create extremely lightweight footwear.

On has indicated that its football products will focus on performance characteristics including lightweight construction and ball feel.

The company is not stopping at football boots. Its wider strategy includes expanding into football apparel and lifestyle products as it attempts to establish a broader presence in the sport.

Thierry Henry Joins On as Director of Football

Mbappé is not the only major football name involved in On’s expansion.

Former France and Arsenal star Thierry Henry has been appointed Director of Football by the company.

Henry has reportedly been involved with On’s football project behind the scenes since late 2025, contributing to the company’s strategy and product development.

The appointment gives On another globally recognised football figure as it prepares to launch its football range.

Henry brings considerable experience from both playing and coaching at the highest level. During his playing career, he represented clubs including Arsenal and Barcelona and was an important member of the France team that won the 1998 FIFA World Cup.

His role at On will involve helping shape the company’s approach to football and its products.

On Also Targets Women’s Football

On’s football expansion is not limited to the men’s game.

The company is also working with Swiss international Sydney Schertenleib, who plays for Barcelona, as part of its efforts to develop products for women’s football.

This suggests that On intends to approach football as a comprehensive category rather than focusing exclusively on the men’s market.

The involvement of players in product development could also allow the company to design football footwear and apparel around the specific requirements of professional athletes.

What Mbappé’s Departure Means for Nike

Mbappé’s departure represents a notable change for Nike.

For years, the French forward has been one of the most visible footballers associated with the American sportswear giant. His connection with Nike began when he was a child and continued throughout his rise from teenage prospect to global superstar.

He became closely associated with the Mercurial boot franchise, alongside other elite players who have represented Nike over the years.

On the other hand, On has an opportunity to use Mbappé’s global profile to immediately attract attention to its new football division.

Rather than building recognition in football gradually, the company is entering the market with one of the sport’s biggest stars already attached to the project.

A Major New Challenger in Football

The football footwear market has traditionally been dominated by established brands such as Nike, Adidas and Puma.

On’s entry could introduce a new competitor with a different approach to footwear design and manufacturing.

The company’s reputation has largely been built around running shoes, innovation and performance technology. Its move into football represents an attempt to transfer that identity into one of the world’s biggest sports.

Having Mbappé as the face of the project gives On immediate global visibility, while Henry’s involvement provides additional football expertise.

The first major test will come in 2027, when On’s football boots are expected to reach the market.

Conclusion

Kylian Mbappé’s move from Nike to On is one of the biggest football sponsorship developments of 2026. The French superstar will become the face of On’s first major push into football, with the company’s debut football boots expected in 2027.

The appointment of Thierry Henry as Director of Football further demonstrates the seriousness of On’s ambitions, while its collaboration with Sydney Schertenleib highlights the company’s plans to develop products for both men’s and women’s football.

With Mbappé providing global star power and On bringing its footwear technology into a new sporting category, the company’s football debut will be closely watched when its first boots arrive in 2027.

The football world will now wait to see whether On can turn its reputation for innovation in running into a successful new chapter in football.