Fire-Whitecaps moved due to poor air quality conditions

CHICAGO, IL–Thursday’s match between Chicago Fire and Vancouver Whitecaps has been rescheduled to Tuesday, October 6th due to poor air quality conditions in the Chicago area. Smoke from wildfires in Northern Ontario has negatively affected air quality in Wisconsin, Chicago, and Toronto. AQI levels in Chicago had read in excess of 400 which represent hazardous conditions. A post match concert has also been postponed. The press release came four hours prior to the scheduled kickoff.

According to the press release from the club, the decision was made with the health and safety of fans, players, staff, and all event personnel as the top priority. The Club reached the decision in close consultation with local health experts, Major League Soccer, Vancouver Whitecaps FC, and the City of Chicago.

“We share our fans’ disappointment, especially given the excitement surrounding our first match back following the FIFA World Cup break and the anticipation of welcoming more than 40,000 fans to Soldier Field,” said Dave Baldwin, President of Business Operations for Chicago Fire FC. “With a marquee matchup against Vancouver, the anticipated home debut of Robert Lewandowski, and the Two Friends post-match concert, tonight was expected to be a special evening at Soldier Field. While we know this decision is disappointing, health and safety must come first. We appreciate our fans’ understanding and look forward to welcoming them back soon.”

The match has been rescheduled for Tuesday, Oct. 6, at Soldier Field. Tickets purchased for the originally scheduled match will remain valid for the rescheduled date. Additional ticketing information will be communicated directly to ticket holders.

The Fire travel to Miami on Wednesday, July 22nd, for their next match which kicks off at 6:30pm CT. The Fire’s next home match is Saturday. August 1st at 7:30pm CT vs. Charlotte FC.

Vancouver travel to FC Cincinnati on July 22nd, and their next home match is also August 1st vs. LAFC at 4:30pm PT.

Both teams are on the road on July 25th as well with the Fire at NYCFC (6:30pm CT) and the Whitecaps at Minnesota United (5:30pm PT).

All aforementioned matches are on Apple TV.