TQL Stadium – stadium description

Where does TQL Stadium get its name from?

The name TQL Stadium comes from Total Quality Logistics (TQL), one of the largest private logistics companies in the United States. The company is headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio—the same city where the stadium is located. TQL specializes in arranging freight transportation by road, sea, and rail, connecting carriers with clients from various industries. Thanks to its market position and local roots, the brand has become one of the most recognizable enterprises in the Cincinnati region, making it a natural partner for the newly built soccer stadium.

Naming rights to the venue were acquired by Total Quality Logistics in April 2021, just a few weeks before the stadium’s official opening. The agreement between TQL and FC Cincinnati was signed for a multi-year period, with the aim of strengthening the stadium’s local identity and highlighting cooperation between business and sport in the region. This partnership is one of the largest sponsorship deals in the club’s history and covers both the right to the stadium’s name and numerous promotional activities and joint marketing initiatives.

Where is TQL Stadium located?

TQL Stadium is located in the city of Cincinnati, in the state of Ohio, in the northeastern part of the United States. The venue sits in the West End neighborhood, only about 2 kilometers west of the city center (Downtown Cincinnati). The location is strategically significant—the stadium was built on the site of the former Willard R. Stargel Stadium sports complex, directly adjacent to urban areas and residential districts, making it an integral part of the city fabric.

To the north, the stadium borders Central Parkway, one of Cincinnati’s main traffic arteries that links downtown with the city’s western districts. To the south, it adjoins West Liberty Street, while to the east it meets John Street—near the historic buildings of the West End and the Over-the-Rhine area, known for its restored tenements and dining venues.

The stadium’s location provides easy access to the city’s key points. Just a few minutes’ drive away are Great American Ball Park and Paycor Stadium, home to the Cincinnati Reds and Cincinnati Bengals, respectively. Thanks to its central position and strong connections to the interstate road network (including Interstate 75 and Interstate 71), the venue is conveniently linked both to Cincinnati’s northern suburbs and to the neighboring state of Kentucky on the opposite bank of the Ohio River.

What is the capacity of TQL Stadium?

TQL Stadium can accommodate 25,513 spectators, making it one of the largest soccer-specific stadiums in Major League Soccer. This capacity was carefully planned to provide the ideal balance between an intimate atmosphere and a scale suited to FC Cincinnati’s growing fan base. The stands are positioned as close to the pitch as possible, creating an intense sense of proximity and allowing supporters to feel part of the spectacle.

From the outset, the design envisioned flexibility—the structure allows for an increase in capacity to around 26,000 seats in the future should the club opt for further development. Most seats are in standard sections, while over 4,500 are designated as premium areas, including VIP suites, skyboxes, business lounges, and exclusive clubs.

A distinctive feature of TQL Stadium is the north stand—known as The Bailey, the ultras supporters’ section. It can hold about 3,100 standing fans, making it one of the largest standing sections in MLS. Its steep rake and compact build deliver excellent acoustics, amplifying the match-day atmosphere.

The venue’s capacity not only supports MLS fixtures but also international matches, concerts, and special events, all while maintaining excellent sightlines from every seat.

When was TQL Stadium opened?

TQL Stadium officially opened on May 16, 2021, when FC Cincinnati played their first match in their new home against Inter Miami CF in Major League Soccer (MLS). The game ended 2–3, yet the event had a symbolic dimension—it was not only the sporting inauguration of the stadium but also a milestone in the history of the club and the city of Cincinnati.

Construction of the stadium began in 2018, moving into full swing the following year after all necessary permits were obtained and financing was approved by city authorities. The project was designed by the renowned firm Populous, in cooperation with local architectural studios, and built by Turner Construction. The total cost came to approximately $250 million, making TQL Stadium one of the most modern and expensive soccer stadiums in the U.S. Midwest.

The opening of TQL Stadium also marked an important step in FC Cincinnati’s development as an MLS club. After two seasons at the temporary Nippert Stadium, the team gained its own dedicated venue designed entirely for soccer. The ceremonial opening drew a sell-out crowd and was hailed as one of the most important sporting events in the city’s history.

Who uses TQL Stadium on a daily basis?

The primary day-to-day tenant of TQL Stadium is FC Cincinnati, which competes in Major League Soccer (MLS). Founded in 2015, the team initially played in the USL Championship and has competed at the top level of American soccer since 2019. After two seasons at the temporary Nippert Stadium, the club moved to the newly built TQL Stadium in 2021, which since then has served as its permanent home and the central hub of its sporting and organizational operations.

The stadium is not only the site of matches but also the center of the organization’s daily functioning. It houses the club’s administrative offices, conference rooms, training facilities, and media and corporate partner areas. FC Cincinnati also uses the venue for off-pitch activities—fan events, team presentations, charity initiatives, and promotional gatherings.

Beyond the MLS club, TQL Stadium is used by local sports and educational organizations that collaborate with FC Cincinnati on youth development programs. The venue also hosts friendlies, soccer tournaments, national team training sessions, and special events organized by the City of Cincinnati.

What events have taken place at TQL Stadium?

Since its opening in May 2021, TQL Stadium has hosted many prestigious sporting and cultural events, confirming its status as one of the most advanced venues in Major League Soccer and the United States as a whole.

Foremost among these are FC Cincinnati’s home fixtures in Major League Soccer (MLS). In the very first season at the new stadium, the club regularly drew sell-out crowds, and the venue quickly earned a reputation as one of the liveliest in the league. As the team’s performances improved—including winning the Supporters’ Shield in 2023—TQL Stadium became a symbol of success and local pride.

The stadium has also hosted international matches, including national team games. In November 2021, it staged a 2022 FIFA World Cup qualifier between the United States and Mexico, which the USA won 2–0. The event resonated widely in the soccer world and confirmed that TQL Stadium meets the highest FIFA standards. In 2022, the venue also welcomed the U.S. Women’s National Team (USWNT) for a series of friendlies.

Beyond soccer, TQL Stadium hosts cultural and entertainment events such as concerts and city festivals. Thanks to its construction and acoustics, it is well-suited to large music shows, and its central location in Cincinnati makes it attractive for organizers of a wide range of events.

What does the architecture of TQL Stadium look like?

TQL Stadium stands out with modern, dynamic architecture that blends functionality with striking visual impact. The design was created by the renowned sports architecture firm Populous. The primary goal was to craft a venue that not only meets MLS’s highest standards but also becomes an urban icon for Cincinnati, fitting the character of the West End’s industrial setting.

The stadium’s façade is one of its most distinctive features. It is composed of more than 500 vertical aluminum panels with LED backlighting that change colors at night and can display animations, patterns, or FC Cincinnati’s club colors. This solution makes TQL Stadium one of the most recognizable sports buildings in the U.S. and underscores its modern, urban style.

The stadium has a closed bowl with four connected stands, preserving a compact form that helps generate an intense match-day atmosphere. A lightweight steel roof covers all sectors and is designed not only to shield spectators from rain but also to enhance acoustics—making the supporters’ chants particularly resonant.

The stands are steep and positioned very close to the pitch, ensuring excellent sightlines from every seat. On the north side sits The Bailey— a single-tier, safe-standing section for FC Cincinnati’s most fervent fans, modeled after European ultras sections.

The interior offers open spaces, glazed VIP areas, wide concourses, and viewpoints with panoramas of the city. Materials—steel, concrete, glass, and copper-toned elements—reference Cincinnati’s industrial history, blending modernity with local identity.

The entire project follows principles of sustainable construction, employing energy-efficient lighting systems, natural ventilation, and environmentally friendly solutions.

What amenities and technological features does TQL Stadium have?

TQL Stadium was designed as a next-generation venue that offers a high level of comfort for fans, players, and event organizers. The architects and investors prioritized modern technologies, functionality, and optimal use of space, making the stadium one of the most technologically advanced in Major League Soccer.

Key infrastructure elements include top-tier lighting and sound systems. The stadium features energy-efficient LED lighting capable of dynamic color and effect changes synchronized with music and on-field events. The integrated sound system provides even audio coverage throughout the venue, enhancing the atmosphere of matches and concerts.

Extensive fan and premium areas are another important component. The stands include numerous VIP suites, business lounges, and hospitality clubs that offer panoramic pitch views, private bars, conference rooms, and access to exclusive catering. In total, the stadium has over 4,500 premium seats, placing it among MLS leaders in offerings for commercial partners.

Fans can use free high-bandwidth Wi-Fi and a 5G network, enabling quick access to club apps, live streams, or in-seat food ordering. The venue also employs cashless payments and digital ticketing, speeding up event operations and improving safety.

From a sporting standpoint, the stadium is equipped with a natural hybrid pitch supported by drainage and irrigation systems that maintain optimal playing conditions throughout the season. Back-of-house spaces include modern locker rooms, recovery centers, training rooms, and medical facilities that meet international federation standards.

TQL Stadium was also designed with accessibility and sustainability in mind. All levels are fully adapted for people with disabilities—with elevators, ramps, dedicated seating, and accessible restrooms. Eco-friendly solutions include rainwater recovery, recycled construction materials, and energy-efficient HVAC systems.

How can you get to TQL Stadium and what transport options are available?

TQL Stadium is in the West End neighborhood of Cincinnati, Ohio, only about 1.5 kilometers west of downtown. Its position within the dense urban grid ensures excellent transport accessibility for both metropolitan residents and visitors from outside the region.

Driving is one of the most popular options. The stadium is near major city arteries, including Interstate 75 and U.S. Route 50, which connect downtown Cincinnati with northern and southern suburbs. Several public and private parking facilities are available near the venue, such as West End Garage and Findlay Market Parking, as well as temporary match-day parking zones. The club encourages purchasing parking passes online in advance to avoid traffic congestion on event days.

Public transit users can rely on the SORTA/Metro bus network, which runs from various parts of the city and stops near the stadium. Stops at Liberty Street, Central Parkway, and Ezzard Charles Drive are a short walk from the main entrances. On match days, special bus lines also operate, transporting fans directly from central parking areas and residential districts.

For those preferring ride-share services such as Uber or Lyft, a designated drop-off and pick-up zone is provided on John Street, right next to the stadium’s south entrance. Numerous bike parking spots are available nearby, and the city promotes eco-friendly travel through the Cincy Red Bike system, with stations located in the stadium’s immediate vicinity.

Thanks to its central urban location and modern transport solutions, TQL Stadium is easily accessible to all visitors—regardless of the chosen mode of travel. Its placement in the vibrant West End, close to downtown and the iconic Findlay Market, makes a stadium visit part of a broader city experience.

What sporting events take place at TQL Stadium?

Many sporting events are held at TQL Stadium, confirming its position as one of the most important soccer venues in the United States. Chief among them are FC Cincinnati’s home matches in Major League Soccer (MLS). Since the stadium opened in 2021, the team has played all league and cup fixtures here, with the venue regularly selling out. A particularly special atmosphere accompanies derby games against Columbus Crew, known as Hell is Real, among the most intense rivalries in MLS.

TQL Stadium is also a host for international events. In November 2021, it staged a FIFA World Cup qualifier between the United States and Mexico, which the USA won 2–0. The match was one of the most high-profile soccer events in the country and showed that the stadium meets the highest FIFA standards. In subsequent years, the venue also hosted U.S. Women’s National Team (USWNT) matches and international tournaments, including the Leagues Cup.

In 2025, TQL Stadium was among the arenas selected to host the FIFA Club World Cup, underscoring its global prestige. Group-stage matches featuring top clubs from Europe and South America are planned.

Are concerts or other cultural events held at TQL Stadium?

TQL Stadium is not only a sports arena but also a modern center for cultural and entertainment events in Cincinnati. Thanks to its architecture, excellent acoustics, and open bowl configuration, the stadium was designed to function as a multi-purpose venue suitable for concerts, festivals, and large-scale public events.

Since its opening in 2021, the stadium has regularly hosted major music events featuring international stars of pop, rock, country, and hip-hop. Concerts take place both on the main pitch and in spaces adapted for smaller outdoor shows. The venue has already been the site of performances by artists such as Ed Sheeran, Morgan Wallen, and Twenty One Pilots, which drew tens of thousands of fans from across Ohio and neighboring states.

Beyond concerts, the stadium serves as a space for other cultural and community gatherings. It hosts city festivals, corporate events, trade fairs, film screenings, and charity functions. TQL Stadium also collaborates with local organizations and cultural institutions, supporting community initiatives and events with educational and artistic aims.

What attendance records have been set at TQL Stadium?

Since opening in 2021, TQL Stadium has repeatedly recorded sell-outs, confirming its status as one of the most vibrant and best-attended soccer venues in Major League Soccer. In the very first season at the new ground, FC Cincinnati drew capacity crowds to most matches, and the record attendance exceeded 25,500 for a game against the Colorado Rapids. That match entered club lore not only for the result but also for the atmosphere—every seat was filled, and fans created a standout visual and acoustic display.

FC Cincinnati’s average attendance ranks among the highest in MLS, regularly staying in the 24,000–25,000 range. Matches against major rivals such as Columbus Crew or Inter Miami draw national media attention and generate interest close to the venue’s full capacity. In the 2023 and 2024 seasons, the club announced multiple sell-outs.