Joe Mansueto, the owner of Chicago Fire, shared that the team is contemplating the construction of a soccer-specific stadium in Chicago, referring to it as the “final piece of the puzzle for this club.” On Thursday, he announced that the club, currently playing at Soldier Field, has begun exploring potential locations throughout the city.
Mansueto acquired 100 percent ownership of the Fire in 2019, relocating the team from a soccer-specific venue in Bridgeview, Illinois, back to Soldier Field, which it shares with the NFL’s Chicago Bears. As the secondary tenant at the Chicago Park District-owned stadium, the Fire often forgoes game dates to the Bears and concerts hosted at the site.
“The warm days of summer and fall are incredibly valuable, and we would love to take advantage of as many as possible. Unfortunately, we frequently face scheduling conflicts due to the Bears and concert events,” Mansueto stated during the press conference that introduced Gregg Berhalter as the team’s new director of football and head coach. “We would prefer to avoid playing during the colder times in winter, early spring, or late fall. Scheduling is indeed a challenge at Soldier Field, where specific sponsorship categories are restricted, and non-gameday access to the pitch can be problematic.”
Following the press conference, Mansueto informed The Athletic that the team has visited three potential sites in Chicago: a lakefront location in the Bronzeville neighborhood, once home to the Michael Reese Hospital and Medical Center; The 78, a development proposal in South Loop where the Chicago White Sox have also suggested constructing a new stadium; and Lincoln Yards, situated along the north branch of the Chicago River in Lincoln Park on the city’s north side.
“Each site has its advantages and disadvantages,” Mansueto mentioned. “We have engaged some consultants for physical feasibility assessments, but now that the Endeavor Health Performance Center is completed, our focus is shifting to the stadium. It’s early days, and we expect to share more in the coming years.”
The Fire is anticipated to launch a new training complex, the Endeavor Health Performance Center, this spring. This $100 million, privately-funded facility is positioned on the west side of the city, close to the Medical District neighborhood and about a mile and a half south of the United Center, home to the NBA’s Chicago Bulls and NHL’s Chicago Blackhawks.
A stadium within the city limits could be transformative for a club that has had difficulty making a significant impact in the competitive Chicago sports market. As the third-largest television market in the United States with a rich history in soccer, Chicago has long been considered a potential powerhouse in MLS. However, the team has struggled over the past 15 years, qualifying for the playoffs only twice since 2009. The shift to SeatGeek Stadium in Bridgeview, located 15 miles from downtown, in 2006 proved to be another obstacle to growing the fan base, as the stadium was not easily accessible by public transport, and the arrangement with the village limited financial benefits. The facility is still utilized by the NWSL’s Chicago Red Stars.
The Fire returned to Soldier Field at the same time that Mansueto acquired controlling interest from former owner Andrew Hauptman, paying $60.5 million to extricate the Fire from its lease in Bridgeview early.
The Fire moved back to Soldier Field in 2020. (Mike Dinovo, USA TODAY Sports)
A new stadium could reignite enthusiasm for a team that achieved the domestic double—MLS Cup and the U.S. Open Cup—in its inaugural season in 1998.
“I believe a smaller venue would suit us well and help strengthen our connection with our fan base,” Mansueto remarked. “I think it would play a significant role in revitalizing the club.”
Chicago Fire becomes the third professional men’s team in the city to consider a new stadium, joining the Bears and the White Sox. While the Bears are refocusing on the Soldier Field site, the White Sox’s stadium plans remain uncertain. Reports from The Athletic indicated that owner Jerry Reinsdorf is open to selling the team. A significant hurdle for these projects is the request for public funding to construct the stadiums. The White Sox are reportedly seeking over $1 billion in public funds, according to the Chicago Tribune, while the Bears’ proposal could require up to $2.4 billion from taxpayers out of the total estimated cost of $4.75 billion, as reported by WTTW.
Mansueto, founder, CEO, and chairman of Morningstar with an estimated net worth of $7.1 billion, commented that the team plans to finance a new stadium privately.
“From my perspective, stadiums aren’t a wise investment,” Mansueto noted. “They are large, expensive to maintain, and remain unused for most of the time. Thus, any value they generate generally benefits the sports team rather than the municipality. Therefore, it seems appropriate that the sports team should own the facility. Additionally, here in Illinois, within the City of Chicago, our financial situation is strained. Funding is required for teachers, law enforcement, and pension obligations. To be candid, our city and state don’t have the resources, and thus I believe we should privately fund it.”
(Top photo: Melissa Tamez / Imagn Images)
Chicago Fire Explores New Soccer-Specific Stadium as Key to Revitalization
The Vision Behind a Soccer-Specific Stadium
As the Chicago Fire Soccer Club aims for a significant turnaround, the concept of a new soccer-specific stadium has emerged as a crucial part of the revitalization strategy. The desire to create an environment that fosters community engagement, enhances the fan experience, and elevates the city’s status as a soccer destination is at the forefront of discussions surrounding this project.
Why a Soccer-Specific Stadium?
Soccer-specific stadiums have been shown to enhance the overall atmosphere of matches, providing an intimate setting that engages fans and players alike. Here are some key reasons why the Chicago Fire is pursuing this route:
- Enhanced Fan Experience: A stadium designed for soccer will offer better sightlines, amenities, and seating options, leading to a more enjoyable match-day experience.
- Community Engagement: A dedicated space for soccer will serve as a hub for local events, youth training programs, and community activities, fostering a sense of belonging.
- Economic Impact: A new stadium can boost local businesses, create jobs, and drive tourism, contributing to the city’s economic revitalization.
Potential Locations for the Stadium
Identifying an ideal location is crucial for the success of the new stadium. Several sites have been proposed, each with its advantages and challenges:
| Location | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Downtown Chicago | High visibility, easy access via public transportation, vibrant area | High land costs, potential zoning issues |
| Lincoln Park | Nearby amenities, strong community support | Environmental concerns, limited space for expansion |
| Bridgeview | Existing facilities, lower land costs | Distance from downtown, less urban engagement |
Case Studies: Successful Stadium Projects
Looking at successful soccer-specific stadiums across the country can provide valuable insights. Here are a few notable examples:
- LAFC’s Banc of California Stadium: Opened in 2018, this $350 million facility in Los Angeles has become a fan favorite, known for its vibrant atmosphere and strong community ties.
- Atlanta United’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium: This venue has set attendance records for soccer matches, showcasing how a multi-purpose stadium can effectively cater to soccer fans.
- Seattle Sounders’ Lumen Field: With a capacity of over 68,000, this stadium has demonstrated the power of soccer to unite communities and attract large crowds.
Key Takeaways from These Case Studies
- Community Involvement: Engaging with local communities during the planning phases is essential for garnering support and ensuring long-term success.
- Design Focused on Soccer: Prioritizing features that enhance the soccer experience, such as standing sections and close proximity to the field, is crucial.
- Sustainability Practices: Implementing green building practices can improve community acceptance and reduce the stadium’s environmental footprint.
Benefits of a New Soccer-Specific Stadium
The potential benefits of constructing a new soccer-specific stadium for the Chicago Fire extend beyond just match days. Here are several key advantages:
1. Revitalization of Neighborhoods
New stadiums often lead to revitalization in surrounding areas, creating a ripple effect of growth in local businesses and infrastructure. Areas near successful stadiums see increased foot traffic, prompting new restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues to open.
2. Boost in Attendance and Revenue
Soccer-specific stadiums tend to draw larger crowds. With the right design and atmosphere, the Chicago Fire could experience a significant increase in attendance, translating into higher ticket sales and merchandise revenue.
3. Hosting Major Events
A new stadium can position Chicago as a prime location for hosting important soccer events, such as international matches, tournaments, and even youth soccer camps, further promoting the sport within the community.
Practical Tips for Community Engagement
As the Chicago Fire navigates the journey of building a new stadium, engaging the community is vital. Here are practical tips to ensure community involvement:
- Host Town Halls: Facilitate open forums where community members can voice their opinions and suggestions.
- Social Media Outreach: Utilize social media platforms to keep fans informed and engaged in the planning process.
- Partner with Local Organizations: Collaborate with schools, local businesses, and non-profits to ensure the stadium meets community needs.
- Offer Tours and Insights: Provide opportunities for the public to tour the planned site and offer feedback on design proposals.
First-Hand Experience: Fan Perspectives
Understanding the perspectives of Chicago Fire fans can provide valuable insights into what features and amenities are most desirable in a new stadium. Here are some key themes gathered from fan surveys:
Preferred Amenities
- Increased Seating Capacity: Fans express a desire for a larger stadium to accommodate more attendees.
- Enhanced Food and Beverage Options: Diverse and high-quality concessions are a top priority for many fans.
- Family-Friendly Areas: Safe spaces for families to enjoy games together are essential for attracting diverse audiences.
Desired Atmosphere
Fans want an electric atmosphere that reflects the passion of Chicago soccer culture. Key components include:
- Supporter Sections: Dedicated areas for fan clubs to rally and chant.
- Pre-Game Events: Fun activities and events to engage fans before matches.
- Accessibility: A focus on making the stadium accessible to all fans, including those with disabilities.
The Economic Impact of a New Stadium
A new soccer-specific stadium can have considerable economic benefits for Chicago. These include:
Job Creation
Construction of the stadium means jobs during the building phase, and ongoing employment opportunities once it opens, including positions in hospitality, security, and maintenance.
Increased Tax Revenue
More visitors and events lead to increased sales tax revenue, benefiting the local economy and city services.
Attracting Tourism
A soccer-specific stadium can help position Chicago as a destination for soccer tourism, drawing fans from around the world for matches and events.
Conclusion
While the journey to constructing a new soccer-specific stadium is filled with challenges, the potential benefits for the Chicago Fire Soccer Club and the surrounding community are significant. By focusing on community engagement, learning from successful case studies, and prioritizing fan experience, the Chicago Fire can pave the way for a successful revitalization effort that promotes soccer culture in the heart of Chicago.
