Nelson Rodriguez steps down as Chicago Fire FC president

Nelson Rodriguez - Chicago Fire - Presser

The big changes for Chicago Fire FC continued on Monday as president Nelson Rodriguez stepped down from his position, the club announced Monday.


ā€œI began discussing my future with owner and chairman Joe Mansueto last month," RodrĆ­guez said in a statement. "At this transformational time for the organization, and after five years with the Fire, Iā€™m ready for a change and Iā€™m looking forward to taking on new challenges. I always tried to do what was best for the club and I am grateful to Joe for his enormous support and to Andrew Hauptman for the opportunity originally given to me. The club is moving in an exciting direction and I wish the team, the staff and fans the very best of luck.ā€


RodrĆ­guez originally joined the Fire in September 2015 as general manager. In January 2018, he took on an expanded role as president and GM. In 2020, RodrĆ­guez began focusing solely on all business areas of the club, including the Fireā€™s transition back to the city of Chicago and Soldier Field.


ā€œFor five years, Nelson has dedicated himself and given his everything to the Club,ā€ Mansueto said. ā€œHe has helped me tremendously over the course of our first year working together and I am grateful for that. We thank him for his loyal service to the Fire and we wish him all the best moving forward.ā€