Empire State Review Contributor 
CHICAGO — In a significant development for Chicago’s sports and urban landscape, the Chicago Fire Football Club has announced plans to construct a $650 million, privately funded soccer stadium in the city’s South Loop. The 22,000-seat venue will be the centerpiece of “The 78,” a long-anticipated mixed-use development aiming to become Chicago’s newest neighborhood.
Team owner Joe Mansueto, founder of financial services firm Morningstar, is personally financing the project, which is slated to break ground in late 2025 or early 2026, with an expected opening ahead of the 2028 Major League Soccer (MLS) season. The stadium will be situated on a 62-acre site bordered by Roosevelt Road, Clark Street, 16th Street, and the Chicago River.
“This new home for the Chicago Fire Football Club will anchor the city’s future 78th neighborhood and serve as a catalyst for job creation, economic development, and vibrant community life,” Mansueto stated. “But 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.”
A New Chapter for the Fire
Since its founding in 1997, the Chicago Fire FC has played in various venues, including Soldier Field and SeatGeek Stadium in suburban Bridgeview. The team returned to Soldier Field in 2020 but has long sought a dedicated, soccer-specific stadium to enhance the fan experience and solidify its presence in the city.
The new open-air stadium, designed by the architectural firm Gensler, will feature a natural grass field and modern amenities tailored for soccer matches. Its downtown location offers easy access to public transportation, including CTA Red, Green, and Orange lines, as well as nearby Metra stations, making it one of the few MLS stadiums situated near a city center.
Revitalizing ‘The 78’
The stadium will serve as the anchor for The 78, a $7 billion development project by Related Midwest. The site, a former railyard and landfill, has remained undeveloped for decades despite various proposals, including plans for corporate headquarters and a research center. The addition of the stadium is expected to jumpstart the area’s transformation into a vibrant neighborhood featuring residential units, retail spaces, restaurants, and a riverwalk.
Curt Bailey, president of Related Midwest, expressed enthusiasm for the project, stating, “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.”
Contrasting Approaches to Stadium Funding
The Fire’s privately funded stadium stands in contrast to other Chicago sports teams’ approaches. The Chicago White Sox have explored building a new stadium at The 78 but have sought over $1 billion in public financing, a proposal that has faced political resistance. Similarly, the Chicago Bears have considered relocating to suburban Arlington Heights, with discussions involving public subsidies.
Mansueto’s decision to forgo public funding has been praised by city officials. Mayor Brandon Johnson commented, “We have someone like Joe Mansueto putting real skin in the game. We’re looking forward to more projects like this.”
Community Impact and Future Prospects
Beyond serving as a home for the Fire, the stadium is envisioned as a year-round community hub. Plans include hosting concerts, festivals, and other events, contributing to the city’s cultural and economic vitality. The development is also expected to create jobs and stimulate local businesses.
As the Fire prepare to transition from Soldier Field to their new stadium, the move signifies a commitment to the team’s growth and to Chicago’s broader urban development goals. The project represents a significant investment in the city’s future, blending sports, community engagement, and economic revitalization.
