On branches into football with Kylian Mbappé partnership

On announced the new partnership with Mbappé today (18 September), marking its first move into football. Mbappé will work directly with On’s product teams on the development and testing of future football footwear and apparel, while also becoming a global ambassador for the brand. Mbappé’s move to On marks the end of his long-standing partnership with Nike. His Nike contract expired on 31 July, bringing the pair’s two-decade relationship to a close. The new partnership will see On apply its focus on performance innovation and Swiss engineering to football, with the brand aiming to develop lightweight and close-fitting products designed for elite players. Mbappé 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. Advertisement “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, which launched in 2010 as a running brand, has since expanded into a global sportswear business through technologies including its CloudTec midsole and LightSpray robotic manufacturing technology. The brand said it will work with a selective group of elite players to develop its football product moving forward, with athletes involved in testing and refining products throughout the development process. David Allemann, founder and co-CEO at On, said: “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. “Our ambition is to bring On’s approach to the pitch, the pavement, and the runway – connecting elite performance with the culture that surrounds the game. With Kylian we have the perfect partner to dream what football can become.” Advertisement French football manager Thierry Henry has also been appointed as On’s director of football, having worked with the brand since late 2025 on its entry into the sport. The former France World Cup winner and Arsenal player will have a central role in the strategic development of On Football, including product development, athlete relationships and the brand’s approach to football culture. Henry said: “Building something new in football requires a bold and original approach. Over the past year, I’ve seen first-hand the curiosity and attention to detail the team at On brings to that process. We want to listen to players, understand what they need and create something that can genuinely add to the game. I’m proud to be part of shaping what comes next.” Swiss international and FC Barcelona player Sydney Schertenleib will also work with On on football product development and testing. She first joined the brand in December 2025 as an ambassador for training and lifestyle. On said Schertenleib’s involvement will help shape products for the women’s game. Have your say or a new account to join the discussion.