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Chicago Fire FC plans $650M stadium at South Loop’s The78

Backed solely by owner Joe Mansueto, the 22,000-seat stadium is slated to start construction in late 2025 ahead of a planned 2028 opening.

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An aerial view of Chicago, showing the downtown skyline and surrounding neighborhoods, and Lake Michigan in the background, late twentieth century. (Photo by The Abbott Sengstacke Family Papers/Robert Abbott Sengstacke/Getty Images)
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Overview

  • Chicago Fire FC announced on June 3 that it will build a 22,000-seat, soccer-specific stadium and entertainment district at Roosevelt Road along the Chicago River in the 62-acre The78 neighborhood.
  • Owner Joe Mansueto will finance the entire $650 million project with private funds, ensuring no taxpayer dollars are used.
  • The open-air venue will feature a natural grass field and serve as the anchor for a mixed-use district including housing, retail, dining and a half-mile riverwalk.
  • Construction is scheduled to begin in fall 2025 or early 2026, targeting the start of the 2028 MLS regular season for its debut.
  • The development is expected to generate thousands of jobs and economic growth in the South Loop, and discussions remain ongoing for a potential White Sox ballpark within The78.