Soccer
The Chicago Fire are looking to be out of Soldier Field by 2028.
The Fire revealed on Tuesday plans to build a privately funded, soccer-specific stadium along the Chicago River, per a club announcement. Projected to have roughly 22,000 seats, the Fire’s stadium project has an estimated cost of $650 million and is expected to open in the spring of 2028.
“A world-class city deserves a world-class football club — with a world-class home to match,” Fire club chairman and owner Joe Mansueto said.
“Our privately funded stadium is purpose-built for soccer to give our players an edge and our fans an incredible matchday experience. This development will be transformative for both the Chicago Fire FC and the city of Chicago. Our new stadium will be the anchor of this new neighborhood which will build community, create thousands of jobs, and have a significant positive economic impact.”
Mansueto also revealed that the project will include an entertainment district with restaurants, retail and office space and residential buildings, along with green space and an extension of the Chicago Riverwalk.
The stadium itself will feature a natural grass playing surface, in comparison to some other venues which have turf.
“Joe Mansueto isn’t just building a soccer stadium, he’s reshaping the future of soccer in Chicago,” MLS commissioner Don Garber said. “This is one of the most ambitious stadium projects in Major League Soccer history, and a powerful reflection of Joe’s extraordinary commitment to the Fire, the fans, and the city. I toured the site recently, and there’s no doubt that this will be a transformative moment for the club and a landmark for Chicago sports.”
The Fire have been at Soldier Field since relocating from SeatGeek Stadium in 2020.
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