Inter Miami CF Stadium: The Evolution of a Soccer Landmark
Located in the heart of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, the Inter Miami CF Stadium serves as a pivotal hub for professional soccer in the United States. Originally conceived as an interim home for the Major League Soccer (MLS) franchise, this soccer-specific stadium—a venue designed specifically for soccer without the distractions of a multi-purpose layout—has evolved into a high-capacity arena 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 youth academy and training operations.
Key Facts
- Location: Fort Lauderdale, Florida, USA.
- Current Capacity: 21,550 seats.
- Ownership: Owned by the City of Fort Lauderdale and operated by Inter Miami CF.
- Construction Cost: $60 million.
- Surface: Natural grass.
- Architect: MANICA Architecture.
History and Development
The stadium's origins are tied to the site of the former Lockhart Stadium. After the Fort Lauderdale Strikers vacated the premises in 2016, the facility fell into disrepair. In early 2019, Inter Miami CF pursued the site to establish a training ground and a venue for their youth and reserve teams. The Fort Lauderdale City Commission approved a 50-year lease in July 2019, allowing the club to build and maintain the facilities while the city retained ownership.
Groundbreaking occurred on May 8, 2019, and 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, where Inter Miami CF defeated Orlando City SC 3–2.
Naming Rights Evolution
The venue has undergone several name changes reflecting various corporate partnerships:
- Inter Miami CF Stadium: Original name (2020–2021).
- DRV PNK Stadium: Named in 2021 through a partnership with AutoNation, tying into a breast cancer awareness campaign.
- 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 and the "Messi Effect"
The arrival of global superstar Lionel Messi in June 2023 triggered a rapid need for increased capacity. To meet unprecedented demand, the club filled the stadium corners with bleacher seating sourced from the Miami International Autodrome (the temporary Formula One circuit at Hard Rock Stadium), adding approximately 3,000 to 3,200 seats.
Despite a brief permitting dispute with the city of Fort Lauderdale, the expansion was completed by July 16, 2023. This phase also included enhanced security measures and an expansion of the press box from 37 to 52 seats.
A second expansion in January 2024 further increased the capacity to 21,550. This update added 1,200 seats in the southwest, northeast, and southeast corners, along with six "opera boxes" and nine "theatre 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 a 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, Argentina, and Colombia, among others. Beyond soccer, the venue hosts American football, including the Miami Hurricanes spring game, Florida High School Athletic Association state championships, and the inaugural Florida Beach Bowl for NCAA Division II HBCUs (Historically Black Colleges and Universities).
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Address | 1350 NW 55th Street, Fort Lauderdale, FL |
| Opening Date | July 18, 2020 |
| Total Capacity | 21,550 |
| Primary Tenant | Inter Miami CF II |
| Future Transition | Inter Miami CF moving to Nu Stadium in 2026 |
Transportation and Access
The stadium is strategically located near Interstate 95 and Commercial Boulevard. For fans traveling from Miami or West Palm Beach, the club partnered with Brightline to offer the "GOOOL Getter" shuttle service, providing dedicated passenger trains to the Fort Lauderdale station.
Public transit options include Broward County Transit (Route 55) and the Tri-Rail Cypress Creek station, though the latter does not provide additional nighttime service for match days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who owns the Inter Miami CF Stadium?
The City of Fort Lauderdale owns the property, while Inter Miami CF is responsible for its construction, operation, and maintenance under a 50-year lease.
Why did the stadium change names multiple times?
The name changes were the result of naming rights agreements with corporate sponsors, including AutoNation (DRV PNK Stadium) and JPMorgan Chase (Chase Stadium), before reverting to its original name.
How did Lionel Messi's arrival affect the stadium?
To accommodate the surge in demand, the club added over 3,000 seats using bleachers from the Miami International Autodrome and later expanded the capacity further to 21,550.
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.