Chicago Fire FC Partners with Boldyn Networks for McDonald's Park Connectivity

As the Chicago Fire FC embarks on an ambitious project to construct McDonald's Park, the club is dedicated to providing fans with an unparalleled experience. This state-of-the-art venue is expected to set new standards for Major League Soccer (MLS) in terms of operational excellence.

On July 27, 2026, it was announced that the Chicago Fire FC has chosen Boldyn Networks as their partner to design and implement a cutting-edge converged network within this highly anticipated stadium, which is scheduled to open in 2028. Situated in Chicago's South Loop, McDonald's Park will not only serve as the team’s home but is poised to become a key entertainment hub within the massive "The 78" redevelopment initiative.

Goyo Perez, Chief Partnership Officer of Chicago Fire FC, expressed, "As we prepare McDonald's Park to become a landmark for the city, choosing the right connectivity partner is crucial for delivering a world-class experience. We are confident that we are in good hands with Boldyn Networks, who possesses the expertise and innovative approach required to elevate our new stadium."

Jason Caliento, Chief Commercial Officer of Boldyn Networks, echoed this sentiment, stating, "Chicago is a critical sports and entertainment market in the U.S., and the growth of soccer here necessitates venues that are designed for the future. We are honored to partner with Chicago Fire FC to establish a digital foundation that meets the expectations of modern fans as well as operational and commercial demands. Our collaborations with MLS venues reflect the league's trust in Boldyn to deliver top-tier DAS connectivity."

This announcement aligns with the lead-up to the MLS All-Star Game presented by Chime, which is set to take place on July 29 in Charlotte. Soccer's popularity continues to surge across the United States, driven by increased fan attendance and momentum from the recent FIFA World Cup 2026.

Chris Schlosser, Senior Vice President of Emerging Ventures at MLS, highlighted the longstanding relationship between MLS and Boldyn Networks. "Our collaboration has historically involved new stadium openings, such as Nu Stadium for Inter Miami CF and BMO Stadium in LA for LAFC. Boldyn’s expertise in delivering future-ready DAS connectivity continues to enhance both fan engagement and commercial success within MLS venues."

The advanced network Boldyn is set to deploy at McDonald's Park will include a neutral host 5G distributed antenna system (DAS) that accommodates all major wireless carriers and high-density Wi-Fi throughout various sections of the venue, including the seating bowl, suites, clubs, concourses, and outdoor areas. A converged fiber backbone will support essential venue operations, including broadcasting, security, and fan-facing digital services.

Additionally, the network infrastructure aims to advance fan engagement technologies, providing a robust digital foundation that not only enhances operational efficiency but also opens new commercial opportunities for Chicago Fire FC. By enabling an improved digital experience, it will foster increased spending in concessions, merchandise, and premium offerings, while also generating new sponsorship possibilities.

Furthermore, Boldyn’s deployment is designed for scalability, ensuring it remains relevant for over a decade, thereby reducing technology obsolescence and supporting continuous innovation. This positions Chicago Fire FC to stay ahead in the evolving landscape of professional soccer.

The Chicago Fire Football Club, established on October 8, 1997, has a rich history within Major League Soccer, having secured six major domestic trophies, including four U.S. Open Cups. The club recently commenced construction on McDonald's Park, aimed at becoming a transformative venue for soccer in Chicago. In the meantime, the team currently plays at Soldier Field and utilizes the Endeavor Health Performance Center for training, which represents an investment of $100 million and opened in 2025.

Beyond its on-field efforts, the club also dedicates itself to the community through the Chicago Fire Foundation, which has contributed over $10 million to enhance the lives of underprivileged youth in the Chicagoland area. Additionally, the club features Chicago Fire II, competing in MLS NEXT Pro, and the Chicago Fire Academy with youth teams ranging from U-13 to U-18.

As the construction of McDonald's Park progresses, the partnership between Chicago Fire FC and Boldyn Networks symbolizes a commitment to envisioning a digitally connected future within sports, promising an enhanced experience for fans, teams, and the broader community alike.