There's a new name in Chicago sports stadiums, and it comes with a side of fries. Fast-food giant McDonald's has officially secured the naming rights to the Chicago Fire's upcoming $750 million stadium, set to rise at The 78 in the South Loop. Welcome to McDonald's Park—the first professional sports stadium naming deal for the Chicago-based restaurant chain and a game-changing partnership for the Fire.
This isn't just a sign on the gate. The multiyear agreement, running through at least 2040, includes plans for a massive flagship restaurant attached to the venue. "Together, we are creating more than a stadium," said Chris Kempczinski, chairman and CEO of McDonald's, in a recent announcement. "We are building a place that serves up joy, brings together community, delivers impact, and is designed to serve generations to come."
The Fire broke ground on the privately funded stadium back in March, transforming a vacant former rail yard into a soccer-specific fortress. The 22,000-seat open-air facility, designed by architectural firm Gensler, will feature a natural grass pitch, 50 luxury suites, and a canopied roof—making it the most expensive MLS stadium ever built. Fans can expect the venue to host 17 regular season games plus 10 to 15 other events annually, from concerts and comedy shows to international soccer matches and combat sports.
Located at the north end of The 78—a sprawling $8 billion mixed-use development on a 62-acre site along the Chicago River—the stadium is poised to anchor a vibrant new neighborhood. "As we take the next step on our journey to build a world-class club, our commitment to Chicago is at the center of everything we do," said Joe Mansueto, Chicago Fire owner and chairman.
With the iconic Golden Arches set to shine both inside and outside the venue, McDonald's Park is slated to open in time for the 2028 MLS season. For Fire fans and fast-food lovers alike, this partnership is shaping up to be a winning combination.
