Chicago City Wire

Chicago Fire FC has received approval from the City Council to build a new, privately funded stadium in The 78, a developing neighborhood in Chicago. This project is notable as it will be the first major stadium constructed in the city in over three decades and will be financed entirely by Joe Mansueto, the club’s owner and chairman.

The planned stadium will have a capacity of 22,000 seats. Construction is scheduled to begin in early 2026 with an expected opening ahead of the 2028 Major League Soccer (MLS) season.

Dave Baldwin, president of business operations for Chicago Fire FC, commented on the development: “We’re grateful to have received City Council’s approval for our new stadium, a transformative project that will anchor Chicago’s newest neighborhood, The 78. We’re grateful to the residents, community members, and public leaders whose support and input have shaped this project. With their partnership, we remain on track to open in time for the 2028 MLS season. This is more than just a stadium – it’s a catalyst for the growth of both our Club and Chicago. We look forward to taking the next steps in this exciting journey and continuing to invest in the future of our great city. We’re just getting started.”

The club also announced that memberships for seats at the new venue will become available starting in early 2026 through dearchicago.com.