Inter Miami CF Stadium
Located in the heart of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Inter Miami CF Stadium serves as a vital hub for professional soccer in the United States. This soccer-specific stadium—a venue designed specifically for soccer without the distractions of a baseball diamond or American football gridiron—was constructed on the historic site of the former Lockhart Stadium. While it began as an interim home for the club, it has evolved into a high-capacity venue hosting international stars and championship matches.
The stadium currently serves as the home pitch for Inter Miami CF II, the club's MLS Next Pro side, and acts as the primary headquarters for the team's first team and youth academy.
Key Facts
- Capacity: 21,550 seats.
- Location: Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
- Construction Cost: $60 million.
- Surface: Natural grass.
- Ownership: Owned by the City of Fort Lauderdale and operated by Inter Miami CF.
- Architect: MANICA Architecture.
History and Evolution
The journey of the stadium began in 2016 when the Fort Lauderdale Strikers vacated Lockhart Stadium, leaving the facility to fall into disrepair. In early 2019, the MLS expansion team Inter Miami CF pursued the site for its training grounds and youth academy. Following unanimous approval from the Fort Lauderdale City Commission and Council, a 50-year lease was signed in July 2019.
Under this agreement, the city retained ownership while the club handled construction and maintenance. The facility was always intended as a temporary solution until the completion of the Nu Stadium at Miami Freedom Park in 2026.
Opening and Naming Rights
The stadium officially opened on July 18, 2020. While the first match was played by Fort Lauderdale CF (a 0–2 loss to Greenville Triumph SC), the first MLS match took place on August 22, 2020, with Inter Miami CF defeating Orlando City SC 3–2.
The venue has undergone several name changes due to corporate partnerships:
- Inter Miami CF Stadium: Original name (2020–2021).
- DRV PNK Stadium: Named in 2021 through a partnership with AutoNation to support breast cancer awareness.
- Chase Stadium: Renamed in February 2024 following a deal with JPMorgan Chase.
- Inter Miami CF Stadium: Reverted to the original name following the 2025 season.
Capacity Expansions
The arrival of global superstar Lionel Messi in June 2023 triggered an immediate need for more seating. Managing owner Jorge Mas initiated a plan to fill the stadium's corners, adding between 3,000 and 3,200 seats. Interestingly, these new sections utilized bleacher seating sourced from the Miami International Autodrome, the temporary Formula One circuit used for the Miami Grand Prix.
Despite a brief permitting dispute with the city of Fort Lauderdale, the expansion was completed by July 16, 2023. This upgrade included enhanced security measures and an expanded press box, which grew from 37 to 52 seats.
A second expansion in January 2024 further increased the capacity to 21,550. This phase added 1,200 seats in the southwest, northeast, and southeast corners, along with nine "theatre boxes" and six "opera boxes" featuring suite-style seating.
A Versatile Sporting Venue
While primarily a soccer venue, the stadium has hosted a diverse array of sporting events. In 2021, it served as the temporary home for CF Montréal due to travel restrictions. Its crowning achievement came on December 6, 2025, when it hosted MLS Cup 2025, where Inter Miami CF secured their first title with a 3–1 victory over Vancouver Whitecaps FC.
International and Multi-Sport Events
The stadium is a frequent host for international friendlies and CONCACAF Gold Cup qualification matches, welcoming national teams from the United States, Germany, Colombia, and Italy, among others.
Beyond soccer, the venue hosts American football, including the Miami Hurricanes spring game and Florida High School Athletic Association state championships. It also serves as the home for the inaugural Florida Beach Bowl, a college football bowl game for NCAA Division II historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs).
Stadium Overview
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Address | 1350 NW 55th Street, Fort Lauderdale, FL |
| Opened | July 18, 2020 |
| Total Capacity | 21,550 |
| Primary Tenant | Inter Miami CF II (MLS Next Pro) |
| Construction Cost | $60 million |
| Surface Type | Grass |
Transportation and Access
The stadium is conveniently located near Interstate 95 and Commercial Boulevard. For fans traveling from other cities, the club partnered with Brightline to offer the "GOOOL Getter" service, providing passenger trains from Miami and West Palm Beach to the Fort Lauderdale station, complemented by a dedicated shuttle.
Public transit options include Broward County Transit (Route 55) and the Tri-Rail Cypress Creek station, though fans are advised that additional nighttime train service is not provided specifically for matches.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who owns the Inter Miami CF Stadium?
The stadium is owned by the City of Fort Lauderdale, while Inter Miami CF is responsible for its operation, maintenance, and construction.
Why did the stadium change names multiple times?
The name changes were the result of naming rights agreements. It was known as DRV PNK Stadium through a partnership with AutoNation and later as Chase Stadium through a deal with JPMorgan Chase.
How did the stadium increase its capacity for Lionel Messi?
The club added approximately 3,000 to 3,200 seats by filling in the corners of the stadium using bleachers from the Miami International Autodrome.
Is this the permanent home of Inter Miami CF?
No, it was designed as an interim venue. The first team is scheduled to move to the Nu Stadium in Miami in 2026.
What other sports are played at the stadium?
In addition to soccer, the stadium hosts American football, including high school championships, the Miami Hurricanes spring game, and the Florida Beach Bowl.