Kylian Mbappe appeared to signal the start of a new commercial chapter by covering the Nike logo on his boots during Real Madrid’s Madrid derby against Atletico.
The forward wore an all-white pair of Nike Mercurial boots, but the American sportswear company’s branding was concealed. The move came only two days after Mbappe’s new partnership with Swiss company On was officially announced.
According to French publication Foot Mercato, the decision to hide the logo marked Mbappe’s first clear public indication of his changing commercial affiliations. The boots were identified as Nike Mercurial Superfly 11s.
Mbappe has recently ended an important phase of his commercial career by joining forces with On. He has become one of the company’s ambassadors and also holds a stake in the business as a shareholder.
The Madrid derby therefore provided the first practical opportunity for the France international to appear in public during this new stage. Concealing the Nike branding offered a visible indication that he is moving towards a different commercial partnership, although he was still wearing Nike footwear.
On has traditionally been associated with triathlon and tennis. Its profile in tennis has been strengthened by its partnership with Swiss great Roger Federer, and the company is now seeking to expand its presence in football.
Mbappe is at the centre of On’s new football project, while former France international Thierry Henry serves as the company’s director of football. Their involvement reflects On’s ambition to establish a stronger position in the world’s most popular sport.
An image of Mbappe’s boots was also shared by Complex Sneakers on 20 September 2026, with the caption: “Kylian Mbappe covers the Nike logo on the Mercurial Superfly 11 👀”.
