Chicago Fire Kick Off 2026 MLS Season Against Houston

Fire look to build on offseason moves as they open campaign on the road

Feb. 19, 2026 at 9:39pm

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The 2026 Major League Soccer season is underway, and the Chicago Fire are set to kick things off with a road match against the Houston Dynamo. After a busy offseason that saw the Fire make several key additions, expectations are high for the club as they aim to improve on their performance from last year.

Why it matters

The Fire are looking to bounce back from a disappointing 2025 campaign and establish themselves as contenders in the MLS Eastern Conference. Their season-opening clash against Houston will provide an early barometer of how the team's offseason moves have paid off and set the tone for the rest of the year.

The details

The Fire made several notable additions in the offseason, including the signing of a high-profile designated player. The team also underwent changes to its coaching staff and front office. How these new pieces come together in the season opener against Houston will be closely watched by fans and pundits alike.

  • The 2026 MLS season kicks off this weekend.
  • The Chicago Fire open their campaign on the road against the Houston Dynamo on February 22, 2026.

The players

Chicago Fire

The professional soccer team based in Chicago, Illinois that competes in Major League Soccer.

Houston Dynamo

The professional soccer team based in Houston, Texas that competes in Major League Soccer.

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What they’re saying

“We're excited to get the season started and see how all the pieces come together. The offseason moves have us feeling confident, but we know we have to go out and prove it on the field.”

— Ezra Hendrickson, Chicago Fire Head Coach (CHGO Sports)

What’s next

The Fire will return home to face the New England Revolution on February 29th, followed by a matchup with defending MLS Cup champions Inter Miami on March 7th.

The takeaway

The Fire's season-opening clash with Houston will provide an early indication of whether the team's offseason investments have paid off and if they are poised to be contenders in the Eastern Conference this year.