Chicago City Wire

Chicago Fire FC has been recognized as the recipient of the 2024 Mark Abbott MLS Starting XI Club Business Award for Business Intelligence Project of the Year. This award acknowledges the club's launch of an SMS subscriber program, developed in collaboration with Attentive, a prominent SMS marketing software provider.

The initiative aims to expand Chicago Fire FC's fanbase by reaching new audiences and attracting individuals to soccer within and beyond the Chicagoland region. Launched in May 2024, the program contributed to record-breaking attendance figures for the club.

Chris McGowan, MLS Executive Vice President and Chief Club Performance Officer, commented on the achievement: "We have completed a record-breaking 2024 season for Major League Soccer, and the passion and drive of our club executives are critical for achieving these levels of success. We are proud to congratulate all of this year’s Mark Abbott MLS Staring XI Club Business Awards honorees."

Additionally, Jake Reid from Sporting Kansas City was named Doug Hamilton Executive of the Year. Since joining in 2010, Reid has led significant business growth for Sporting KC, setting records in ticket sales and revenue streams. The club's match against Inter Miami CF saw notable ticketing revenue and attendance.

John Thorrington from Los Angeles Football Club was awarded MLS Sporting Executive of the Year. Under his leadership, LAFC finished first in the Western Conference during the regular season and reached consecutive Conference Finals over three seasons. His strategic player acquisitions have bolstered LAFC's performance.

St. Louis CITY SC distinguished itself as the only club with two awards this year. Other clubs receiving accolades include Atlanta United, Austin FC, Charlotte FC, Columbus Crew, Nashville SC, Orlando City SC among others.

Award selections were made by League stakeholders using both quantitative and qualitative criteria or through peer voting involving MLS clubs and League Office members.

For more details about Chicago Fire FC or updates on their upcoming 2025 MLS Season, visit chicagofirefc.com or follow them on social media platforms like Twitter (@chicagofire), Instagram (@chicagofire), TikTok (@chicagofire), and Facebook (facebook.com/chicagofire).