Chicago Fire FC Stadium

Chicago, Illinois

Introducing Chicago’s Newest Sports Destination

The Chicago Fire FC Stadium amplifies the fan experience and serves as the cornerstone of the city’s newest mixed-use district, The 78.
A city skyline with a river.
HIGHLIGHTS
  • 475,000-Square-Foot Soccer-Specific Stadium With 22,000 Seats
  • 2,000-Person Dedicated Supporter Section
  • A New Water Taxi Stop for Gamedays and the Workday
A group of people outside of a building.
Challenge

The popularity of soccer in the United States is being fueled by a mix of international star power, youth development, and a rising cultural acceptance of the sport. Club owners are taking note, investing in new, soccer-specific stadiums that boast better fan experiences and stronger local identities, along with state-of-the-art training facilities to promote player development. To ensure long-term success, these 365-day, multipurpose venues are embedded within vibrant, mixed-use districts.

Solution

Gensler is partnering with Chicago Fire FC to design a 22,000-seat, soccer-specific stadium. Inspired by Chicago’s brick-and-steel industrial heritage, the stadium brings fans closer to the action with an intimate seating bowl, exposed steel canopy, and a purpose-built supporter section. Premium clubs, suites, and flexible amenities enhance the game-time experience. Adjacent plazas and riverfront public spaces within The 78 extend the stadium’s role as a sports and entertainment hub.

Impact

The Chicago Fire FC Stadium supports soccer, concerts, festivals, and community events. The flexible, future-ready design activates the area beyond match days. Building upon the city’s reputation as a high-energy sports destination, the stadium is set to become a powerful catalyst for urban renewal and civic pride.

A sports stadium with a field and a field with people in it.
A stadium filled with people.
A bridge with lights at night.
Areas of Expertise
Recognition
Related Work
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Arthur M. Blank U.S. Soccer National Training Center

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Further Reading
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A large courtyard with people and cars in it and buildings in the back.
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A group of people sitting at tables.
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Al-Ahly Stadium aerial rendering
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Facing height and capacity restrictions, an innovative design solution turned these challenges into an opportunity to design a year-round, landmark sports venue.
Al-Ahly Stadium rendering
Press Release

Gensler Unveils Visionary Concept for Al-Ahly Football Club’s First Home in Cairo

Gensler’s design aims to create a landmark venue that embodies the spirit of the Al-Ahly Football Club and acts as a cultural and economic catalyst for the region.
A man and woman dancing.
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What Do Consumers Want? Gensler’s U.S. Consumer Experience Report Uncovers Key Insights

Gensler’s latest consumer research delves into how design can impact human experiences for the better.
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A proposal to redevelop and repurpose the iconic stadium into a multi-use venue would preserve the building’s historic integrity while giving it new life.
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