The Chicago Fire FC announced a major new partnership on Tuesday connected to the club’s future stadium in downtown Chicago.
The new venue, which is expected to open in 2028, will become one of the newest soccer-specific stadiums in Major League Soccer.
The project is set to hold more than 22,000 fans for matches and will also host concerts and community events throughout the year.
Earlier this year, Inter Miami moved into the new Nu Stadium at Miami Freedom Park, which will serve as Lionel Messi’s home stadium with the club. New York City FC is also preparing to open Etihad Park in 2027.
Chicago Fire Reveal McDonald’s Park as Future Home
The announcement also saw the Fire make unexpected U.S. sports history, with the club revealing that its future home will officially be called McDonald’s Park, the first time McDonald’s has secured naming rights for a major professional sports stadium in the United States.
The partnership between the global fast-food company and the MLS club was officially unveiled on May 13. Reports suggest the agreement will run through at least 2040 and is considered one of the most valuable naming-rights deals in MLS.
Chicago Fire FC forward Fabian Herbers and New York Red Bulls defender Sean Nealis and midfielder Peter Stroud battle for the ball during the second half.Jonathan Jones-USA TODAY Sports
Beyond branding, the collaboration will include community initiatives, youth soccer programs, and a permanent flagship McDonald’s restaurant inside the stadium.
“Together, we are creating more than a stadium,” said Chris Kempczinski, President and CEO of McDonald's. “We are building a place that serves up joy, brings together community, delivers impact, and is designed to serve generations to come.”
Chicago Fire owner Joe Mansueto also described the agreement as an important step for the club.
“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,” Mansueto said. “That’s why McDonald’s is the perfect partner, an iconic global brand with deep Chicago roots and shared values in supporting our community. McDonald’s Park will be the stadium that Chicago deserves.”
Although stadium naming-rights deals are common in American sports, this is the first time McDonald’s has put its name on a major professional sports venue in the United States.
The Fire currently play their home matches at Soldier Field, but the club has continued investing heavily in infrastructure under owner Joe Mansueto.
Construction on the new stadium officially began earlier this year, with the club also opening a new training facility in 2025 as part of its broader expansion plans.
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on May 13, 2026, where it first appeared in the Soccer section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
