Giant brand’s crisis deepens as football superstar ditches to team up with tennis icon

France captain Kylian Mbappe has signed with Swiss sportswear brand On, ending a long association with Nike that stretched back to the start of his career, the company announced on Friday.

“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,” read a company statement.

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On also announced that 1998 World Cup winner Thierry Henry had been appointed its football director.

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

“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 is making a major move into the football market with the signing of Mbappe, did not disclose the value of his contract.

Founded in 2010 and previously focused on running and tennis footwear, On counts tennis great Roger Federer among its shareholders.

Federer also left Nike towards the end of his playing career to join the Zurich-based company.