Chicago Fire FC has begun construction on a new $750 million privately funded soccer stadium in Chicago’s South Loop. This marks the first major stadium development in the city in over 30 years.
The groundbreaking ceremony was attended by Club Owner and Chairman Joe Mansueto, President of Business Operations Dave Baldwin, city officials, project partners, and community representatives. The investment is part of Mansueto’s broader commitment to Chicago Fire FC since acquiring full ownership in 2019, which has included more than $1 billion dedicated to club improvements such as the Endeavor Health Performance Center and increased academy support.
“This is a historic day for Chicago Fire FC and for the city we are proud to call home,” said Joe Mansueto, Owner and Chairman of Chicago Fire FC. “This stadium is about investing in Chicago and creating a world-class home for our fans, players, and community. We are fully committed to delivering a venue that reflects the passion of the city and the ambition of this Club.”
The new stadium will be designed by Gensler and seat over 22,000 fans. Features include a natural grass field, 360-degree viewing areas, a supporters’ section focused on atmosphere, and premium hospitality spaces. The venue will also host concerts, international sports matches, community events, and other programming throughout the year.
Located along the Chicago River at The 78 development site, the stadium aims to be central to a mixed-use neighborhood that promotes economic growth and job opportunities in the South Loop. Public plazas and outdoor spaces are planned to connect with nearby retail and residential areas.
“This groundbreaking represents years of vision, planning, and partnership,” said Dave Baldwin, President of Business Operations for Chicago Fire FC. “From day one, our goal has been to create one of the best sports and entertainment experiences in North America – one that is authentic to Chicago and designed with our fans at the center. Today is proof that we are delivering on that promise.”
The facility is expected to open before the start of the 2028 MLS season.
Chicago Fire FC previously opened its $100 million Endeavor Health Performance Center in 2025 for its first team as well as youth academy operations. The club recently moved its business offices into downtown’s Wrigley Building and launched an experience center there featuring interactive displays related to their future home.
The stadium project brings together Related Midwest as master developer for The 78 site; Gensler as lead architect; with Pepper Construction, GMA Construction Group, and All Construction Group managing construction efforts.
Chicago Fire FC competes in Major League Soccer conferences with a professional roster (https://www.chicagofirefc.com/). The club uses Soldier Field for matches (https://www.chicagofirefc.com/) while advancing professional soccer in the region through youth development programs (https://www.chicagofirefc.com/) and engaging local communities (https://www.chicagofirefc.com/). Founded on October 8, 1997—the anniversary of the Great Chicago Fire—the team incorporates symbols inspired by this event (https://www.chicagofirefc.com/). Over its history it has won several titles including an MLS Cup victory (https://www.chicagofirefc.com/) along with multiple U.S. Open Cups (https://www.chicagofirefc.com/).
For further details or information about premium opportunities related to the new stadium project visit www.dearchicago.com.
