MLS
Chicago Fire FC: A Founding Club of Modern MLS
Chicago Fire: A Founding Club of Modern MLS
Chicago Fire FC is one of the original cornerstones of Major League Soccer, founded in 1997 and officially beginning play in 1998. The team was named in honor of the Great Chicago Fire of 1871, symbolizing both the city’s resilience and its ability to rebuild stronger. The Fire entered MLS as an expansion team but made an immediate impact, capturing the imagination of fans and setting a standard for success among new clubs.
In their debut season, the Fire stunned the league by winning both the MLS Cup and the U.S. Open Cup, becoming the first expansion side to accomplish such a feat. Led by head coach Bob Bradley and legendary players like Peter Nowak, Lubos Kubik, and Ante Razov, Chicago quickly became one of MLS’s premier clubs in its early years.
Over the decades, the Fire have experienced periods of triumph and struggle. They added additional U.S. Open Cup titles in 2000, 2003, and 2006, while consistently producing or signing MLS stars such as Cuauhtémoc Blanco, Brian McBride, and Chris Armas. More recently, the club has been focused on rebuilding its roster, strengthening its academy, and reconnecting with the city’s vibrant soccer culture.
Trivia: Chicago Fire won the MLS Cup and U.S. Open Cup double in their first season (1998) — a feat unmatched by any other expansion team in MLS history.
Rivalries
The Fire’s most historic rivalry is with the Columbus Crew, dubbed the “Trillium Cup.” The contest has roots in both competitive matches and regional proximity, with Midwest bragging rights always on the line.
Another major rivalry is with the New England Revolution, fueled by a series of heated playoff battles in the early 2000s. Between 2000 and 2009, Chicago and New England met in the playoffs five times, creating one of the most intense postseason rivalries in MLS history.
In recent years, matches against St. Louis CITY SC have taken on growing significance, as the two cities share geographic closeness and sporting competition across multiple leagues. The Fire also share a competitive edge with FC Cincinnati, another Midwest club, as both look to capture the attention of the region’s growing soccer fanbase.
Trivia: From 2000 to 2009, Chicago and New England played five playoff series, including three straight Eastern Conference Finals (2002–2004).
Chicago Fire: Ownership
Chicago Fire FC is owned by Joe Mansueto, the billionaire founder of Morningstar, who purchased full control of the club in 2019. Mansueto has invested heavily in reshaping the Fire’s brand and presence, including rebranding the team’s crest in 2021 and moving matches back to Soldier Field to reconnect with the city’s downtown fans.
Mansueto’s vision focuses on elevating the Fire into a flagship MLS franchise by improving facilities, enhancing scouting, and investing in both the first team and youth academy. He has also strengthened the Fire’s international profile by acquiring stakes in Swiss club FC Lugano, creating pathways for player development and transfer opportunities between Europe and MLS.
Trivia: Joe Mansueto is one of the wealthiest MLS owners, with a net worth estimated at over $5 billion, giving the Fire the resources to pursue ambitious long-term growth.
Watch Chicago Fire
Chicago Fire currently plays at Soldier Field, the historic stadium located along Lake Michigan that also serves as home to the NFL’s Chicago Bears. Soldier Field has a capacity of over 61,500, making it one of the largest venues in MLS. The move back downtown in 2020 was designed to strengthen attendance and accessibility after years of playing in Bridgeview, Illinois at SeatGeek Stadium (formerly Toyota Park).
While Soldier Field offers iconic city views and history, its size makes filling the stadium a challenge. The Fire’s supporter groups, including Section 8 Chicago and La Banda Roja, create a passionate gameday environment with drums, songs, and tifos, giving Soldier Field a lively atmosphere during MLS matches.
Trivia: The Fire originally played at Soldier Field from 1998 to 2001, before moving to Bridgeview. Their 2020 return to the stadium brought the club back to the heart of the city.
Chicago Fire: This Season
In the 2025 MLS season, Chicago Fire continues to rebuild under the guidance of head coach Frank Klopas, a long-time figure within the organization. The roster features a blend of experienced internationals, designated players, and academy products. Polish striker Kacper Przybyłko and homegrown midfielder Brian Gutiérrez have been key contributors, while the team continues to seek greater consistency in attack and defense.
The Fire’s strategy is centered around integrating academy talent into the first team, while also leveraging international scouting connections, particularly with Switzerland through FC Lugano. Fans remain hopeful that the club can recapture its past glory and become a regular playoff contender once again.
Trivia: Chicago Fire’s academy has produced several notable MLS players, including Djordje Mihailović and Chris Brady, who represent the next generation of American soccer talent.
Chicago Fire: What to Follow
Looking ahead, the Fire’s biggest challenges and opportunities revolve around solidifying their identity as one of MLS’s legacy clubs. Rebuilding trust with the fanbase, improving consistency on the field, and continuing to develop local talent will be key to the club’s long-term resurgence.
Observers will also keep an eye on how the Fire leverage their relationship with FC Lugano to create a transatlantic pipeline for player development and transfers. Additionally, the success of playing downtown at Soldier Field will determine the club’s ability to grow attendance and strengthen its connection with Chicago’s diverse soccer culture.
Trivia: Chicago Fire’s name is directly inspired by the Great Chicago Fire of 1871, which reshaped the city’s history. The team’s original badge prominently featured a six-pointed star, symbolizing the city flag of Chicago.