Chicago Fire FC set club attendance record vs. Inter Miami CF | OneFootball

By MLSsoccer staff

Another visit from Lionel Messi and Inter Miami CF, another attendance record for Chicago Fire FC.

The Fire welcomed 63,094 fans to Soldier Field for Wednesday night's clash with Inter Miami, establishing a new single-match club attendance record.

Wednesday's crowd surpassed the previous club record of 62,358, set when Chicago hosted Miami on April 13, 2025. That match broke the previous mark of 62,124, established during Chicago's 4-1 victory over Miami in October 2023.

Wednesday's turnout adds another milestone to a memorable 2026 season for the Fire, with global superstar Robert Lewandowski's arrival helping usher in a new era for the club.

Historic crowds across MLS

Chicago's record-setting turnout continued a trend of massive crowds across MLS in 2026, with several clubs establishing new attendance benchmarks.

Star factor

Wednesday's crowd had no shortage of star power, with Lewandowski and Messi going head-to-head in a matchup between two of the world's most accomplished players.

Lewandowski joined Chicago this summer following a decorated career in Europe that included more than 700 goals for club and country. The Polish legend made a quick impact in Wednesday's contest, scoring the opening goal in the 10th minute.

The sides ultimately battled to a 1-1 draw, keeping Miami second in the Eastern Conference on 44 points, with Chicago close behind in third (39 points).

HIGHLIGHTS: Chicago Fire FC vs. Inter Miami CF | September 9, 2026