Plans for new MLS stadium in Chicago unveiled
MLS club Chicago Fire FC wants to build a new stadium of its own. Given the uncertain future of Soldier Field and the desire for a football-specific venue, the club owner plans to start construction in 2025.
Since moving from SeatGeek Stadium in 2019, Chicago Fire has been playing at the municipal Soldier Field, which is still the home of the American football franchise Chicago Bears. The Bears are aiming to build their own stadium, for which they have already published plans. The football club has also announced a new construction project as its lease agreement is coming to an end.
A 22,000-seat soccer-only stadium is to be built on the undeveloped “The 78” site in the South Loop, located on the Chicago River between Roosevelt Road, Clark Street, and 16th Street. The plans call for an open-air stadium with a natural grass field.
The project, estimated to cost around 650 million dollars (570m EUR / 480m GBP), will be largely financed by Chicago Fire FC owner Joe Mansueto: “This project is more than just a stadium. It’s a space for fans of all ages, backgrounds and neighborhoods to come together and celebrate the beautiful game – right in the heart of our city. It’s about investing in Chicago, not just on match days, but every day as a committed community partner,” Mansueto points out in an official statement.
The remaining costs associated with the construction of the stadium, which is set to become the centerpiece of a new neighbourhood, will likely have to be covered by taxpayer money. The developer, Related Midwest, could apply for millions in tax increment financing or “TIF” money to finance the infrastructure needed to prepare the site for development, such as roads, water lines, sewers, power lines, and parking lots.
“This is a monumental day not just for The 78 but for all of Chicago. The Fire’s decision to bring the city’s first soccer-specific stadium to our site will give rise to an entirely new sports and entertainment district that activates more than a half-mile of downtown riverfront. Few institutions have the ability to create the sweeping economic benefits this stadium will generate — and soon. We’re grateful for Joe Mansueto’s unwavering commitment to Chicago and belief in our development vision as we work together to lay the foundation of the city’s next great neighborhood,” said Curt Bailey, President of Related Midwest.
With an area of 62 acres (around 25 hectares), the site is one of the largest undeveloped plots of land in the city, which is why there has been repeated interest in it in the past. Projects such as a possible new ballpark for the White Sox or a research center for the University of Illinois have been discussed on several occasions. Nevertheless, Chicago Fire could now win the bid due to its largely private financing. Construction work could begin as early as this fall. The opening of the new venue is targeted for spring 2028. (stadiaworld, 05.06.2025)
