2023 Major League Rugby Championship Heads to Chicago

Major League Rugby’s 2023 Championship Match will be hosted by the league’s newest team, the Chicago Hounds, at SeatGeek Stadium on July 8 in Bridgeview, Illinois.

The match will be the culmination of an all-day block party at the venue. During the lead up to the game, the party will feature competitive games at all levels with local food and drink offerings and a live music festival.

“Moving the Championship Match to a predetermined venue has long been a goal of Major League Rugby,” said Major League Rugby Chief Executive Officer Nic Benson. “As the league continues to show an exceptional pattern of growth, we believe this is the perfect time to plan an entire weekend of fun rugby and fan events around our showcase game. Chicago’s rich history of hosting large scale rugby events combined with a great facility in SeatGeek stadium, makes for the perfect place to celebrate and honor our athletes and fans.”

In future seasons, Major League Rugby intends to allow venues within and outside the league the opportunity to host the Championship Final.

“We are excited to showcase all that American rugby has to offer through it’s remarkable growth from top level men’s and women’s club games to youth rugby and everything in between,” said Chicago Hounds Majority Owner Peter Bernick. “We expect a full house for what will be a fantastic weekend and can’t wait to bring this event to Chicago.”