Chicago Fire FC is an American professional soccer franchise based in the vibrant city of Chicago, Illinois. The club was officially founded on October 8, 1997, a date symbolically chosen to commemorate the 126th anniversary of the Great Chicago Fire, an event that profoundly shaped the city's history. Since joining Major League Soccer (MLS) in 1998 as one of the league's first expansion teams, the Fire has competed with distinction, currently as a member of the Eastern Conference.

Their home is the iconic Soldier Field, a stadium with a capacity exceeding 61,500 spectators, situated on the shores of Lake Michigan. This historic venue, also home to the NFL's Chicago Bears, has witnessed the Fire's most glorious moments, including their astonishing inaugural 1998 season. In that year, under the guidance of Bob Bradley, the team, against all odds, conquered the MLS Cup by defeating D.C. United and, a week later, lifted the U.S. Open Cup, completing an unprecedented "double" for an expansion team. This early success laid the foundation for a rich tradition, which would be augmented by three more U.S. Open Cups (2000, 2003, 2006) and an MLS Supporters' Shield in 2003. Popularly known as "The Men in Red," Chicago Fire FC constantly strives to revive those past glories and offer its passionate supporters a top-tier soccer experience in the 2025 season.

Experiencing a Chicago Fire FC match at the legendary Soldier Field is an event that combines soccer passion with Chicago's iconic skyline. To ensure a smooth and exciting day, consider this guide. First, secure your verified seats through official channels; this guarantees access and allows you to choose from various locations to enjoy the match. Planning your transportation is crucial. Soldier Field, located on Museum Campus, is accessible by several CTA bus routes, such as the #146 Inner Drive/Michigan Express, and via the Red, Orange, and Green train lines to Roosevelt Station, followed by a short walk or bus transfer. For those who prefer to drive, multiple parking lots are available around the stadium, including the North Garage, Waldron Deck, and South Lot; purchasing parking passes online in advance is highly recommended to secure your spot and potentially get a better price. Parking lots typically open three hours before kickoff.

Stadium gates generally open 90 minutes before the first whistle, allowing ample time to explore. On select matches, Gate 0 and Sparky's Courtyard open up to 3 hours earlier, offering pre-game entertainment. Once inside, you'll find a variety of dining options, from classic snacks to local specialties like Connie's Pizza or Italian beef sandwiches. There are also official Chicago Fire FC stores where you can purchase jerseys, scarves, and other memorabilia to show your support. It's important to review Soldier Field's bag policy before your visit, as they usually have restrictions on the size and type of bags allowed. For families, the Kids Club offers activities and a special connection to the team. Guest Services booths are available to assist you with any needs. Prepare for an electric atmosphere, especially with player introductions and goal celebrations that often include pyrotechnics.