CHICAGO — A major sports infrastructure project is now officially underway in Chicago, as the Chicago Fire FC has announced plans to construct a $650 million soccer-specific stadium in the city’s South Loop neighborhood.
The project — entirely privately funded by billionaire team owner Joe Mansueto, founder of Morningstar Financial Services — will be built on a 62-acre vacant site known as The 78, located between Roosevelt Road, Clark Street, and 16th Street along the South Branch of the Chicago River.
According to CBS Chicago, the stadium will feature:
- A 22,000-seat open-air design with a natural grass field
- A prime urban location set to boost surrounding development
- A construction timeline aiming for completion by the 2028 MLS season
Billionaire Owner’s Vision: A World-Class Club with a World-Class Home
“This stadium is about building more than just a home for Chicago Fire FC,” said Joe Mansueto. “It’s about creating jobs, building community identity, and contributing to Chicago’s economic future.”
City officials have welcomed the proposal for its minimal reliance on public funds. However, developer Related Midwest may still request limited TIF (Tax Increment Financing) support to fund infrastructure upgrades like roads, sewer lines, and power grids.
Broader Impact on Chicago’s Sports Landscape
Stadium expert Marc Ganis called it a “win-win” situation for the city, county, and state:
“A soccer stadium on privately owned land without asking for public money — that’s a really good day for Chicago,” Ganis told CBS Chicago.
The announcement could also impact future stadium discussions for the Chicago White Sox and Chicago Bears. Both teams have considered new homes on or near The 78, and experts say the Fire FC’s progress might catalyze broader development momentum.
The White Sox, in particular, have expressed ongoing interest in relocating to The 78, although their chairman Jerry Reinsdorf has reportedly sought $1 billion in public financing — a proposal Governor JB Pritzker has said is “not a priority.”
Stadium Timeline & Current Lease
The Fire’s current lease at Soldier Field is set to expire this year. With permits and infrastructure agreements in place, construction at The 78 could begin as early as fall 2025, positioning the team for a fresh start in 2028.
What do you think about Chicago Fire FC’s new stadium plan? Should other teams follow the private funding model? Let us know in the comments below.
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