Chicago Fire FC has officially begun construction on a $750 million stadium in Chicago, marking the first major professional sports venue built in the city in more than three decades.
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The groundbreaking ceremony took place on March 3, launching construction of the 22,000-seat Major League Soccer stadium, which will become the new home field for the club.
The project is privately funded by billionaire investor Joe Mansueto, who also founded the investment research firm Morningstar.
The stadium will serve as the centerpiece of Phase 1 of The 78, a large mixed-use development along the Chicago River led by Related Midwest.
The project is designed to create Chicago’s 78th official neighborhood, connecting several nearby communities including the South Loop, Chinatown, Bronzeville, Bridgeport, UIC/Little Italy and Pilsen.
The stadium and surrounding development are expected to bring new residential, retail and public spaces to the riverfront area.
Several Chicago-area contractors have been selected to build the stadium, including Pepper Construction, GMA Construction Group and All Construction Group.
According to project leaders, the construction team will collaborate with local trade partners, labor unions and workforce organizations to staff the large project.
Rob Martinelli, senior vice president at Pepper Construction, highlighted the company’s long history of building projects in Chicago.
“Having built in the city for nearly a century, we have earned a reputation as a great contractor to work with, and we look forward to partnering with a robust, inclusive workforce to build the stadium,” Martinelli said.
The venue is being designed by global architecture firm Gensler and will feature 360-degree views, an all-grass playing field, and dedicated sections designed for the club’s most passionate supporters.
The design also draws inspiration from Chicago’s industrial brick-and-steel architectural heritage, incorporating elements such as an exposed steel canopy.
Beyond soccer matches, the stadium will host concerts, community events and other large-scale entertainment activities, making it a year-round destination within the development.
Plans also include outdoor gathering spaces, public plazas and a water taxi stop along the Chicago River, allowing visitors to reach the stadium via river transportation.
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The stadium project builds on recent investments made by Chicago Fire FC in the city.
In 2025, the club opened the $100 million Endeavor Health Performance Center, a modern training facility designed to support player development and team operations. The organization has also moved its business offices to the historic Wrigley Building downtown.
Construction leaders expect the new stadium to be completed in time for the 2028 Major League Soccer season.
Once finished, the facility will serve as a central feature of The 78 development and help expand Chicago’s professional sports infrastructure while activating a new neighborhood along the riverfront.
City planners and developers say the project will strengthen connections between nearby communities and create a new entertainment destination for residents and visitors alike.
Originally reported by Matthew Thibault, Reporter in Construction Dive.
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