The Chicago Cubs are set to unveil a permanent tribute commemorating their historic World Series victories, with a special emphasis on the 2016 championship team. The organization announced plans to install the Champions Gate at the entrance to Gallagher Way on Clark Street, marking the 10th anniversary of the Cubs’ 2016 World Series title, which ended a 108-year drought. The gate is scheduled for its official ribbon-cutting ceremony on July 18 as part of a weekend celebration honoring the milestone.
The Champions Gate is designed to connect the franchise’s three World Series championships in 1907, 1908, and 2016. Brick pillars on either side of the archway will feature bronze plaques listing the players and managers from each title team. Dominating the top of the gate is a large bronze medallion inspired by the commemorative 2016 World Series champions logo used by the Cubs. Decorative bronze ivy flanking the medallion symbolizes the Boston ivy that famously covers Wrigley Field’s outfield walls. The metal truss of the gate incorporates a diamond-shaped pattern reflective of the ballpark’s gates, along with subtle “W” insignias drawn from Wrigley’s light towers and the iconic “W” flag.
In discussing the project, Cubs president of business operations Crane Kenney explained that the idea came from a desire to create a permanent, year-round symbol beyond the seasonal marquee and trophy displays. Gallagher Way, the site of the team’s statue row and a focal point for fan activities, was chosen as the ideal location for the gate. According to Kenney, the challenge lay in creating an appropriate tribute to the collective effort of the 2016 team, which, unlike teams with standout signature moments or players, represented a unified group achievement.
Rather than erect a statue or banner similar to those commemorating other historic Chicago and Boston teams, the Cubs drew inspiration from the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, a monument honoring military victories and those who served their country. This concept translated into a gateway featuring etched narratives that highlight each championship team’s achievements, with assistance from team historian Ed Hartig.
The Cubs collaborated with Stantec, the architectural firm responsible for Gallagher Way, and restoration architect Gunny Harboe to ensure the gate’s design would integrate seamlessly with the existing Wrigley Field aesthetic. They are also working with the same iron manufacturer that produced their statues to maintain material consistency.
A committee including 2016 alumni such as Anthony Rizzo, Dexter Fowler, Jake Arrieta, and Ben Zobrist contributed to planning the 10-year celebration and helped shape the design of the Champions Gate. Kenney noted that the structure is intended to be expandable, allowing space for future World Series team tributes as the franchise continues to build on its legacy.
The Cubs plan to release additional details about the 10-year celebration events in the weeks leading up to the July 18 unveiling. Once completed, the Champions Gate will serve as a lasting gateway into Gallagher Way, where fans can reflect on the franchise’s historic achievements while celebrating current and future successes.