Mbappe ends Nike partnership, signs deal with Swiss sportswear brand on

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France captain and Real Madrid forward, Kylian Mbappe, has ended his long-standing partnership with Nike after signing a deal with Swiss sportswear company On.

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On announced the partnership on Friday, describing Mbappe’s signing as part of its entry into the football market.

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The company also announced the appointment of former France international and 1998 World Cup winner, Thierry Henry, as its football director.

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On plans to introduce its first football boots next year, although it did not disclose the financial terms of its agreement with Mbappe.

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Mbappe said he was attracted to the partnership by the opportunity to create something new and contribute his experience to the development of the brand’s football products.

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

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“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.

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“We have a shared dream, and this is only the beginning.”

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Founded in 2010, On initially built its reputation in running and tennis footwear before expanding into football. Tennis legend Roger Federer is among its shareholders and also moved from Nike to the Zurich-based company towards the latter part of his playing career.

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Mbappe’s switch represents a significant loss for Nike, which has been associated with the France international since 2006 and featured him prominently in its football campaigns.

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The 2018 World Cup winner, who is the tournament’s all-time leading scorer with 22 goals, had become one of Nike’s most prominent football ambassadors following Cristiano Ronaldo.

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Mbappe’s departure comes after Spain international Lamine Yamal also left Nike for Adidas in 2024.

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Nike continues to have sponsorship deals with several prominent footballers, including Norway striker Erling Haaland and Brazil forward Vinicius Junior.

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AFP

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