Chicago Bears ‘Focused’ Only on New Stadium in Arlington Heights

The new president of the Chicago Bears has made it clear the team is planning to move.

Former Big Ten commissioner Kevin Warren, who will helm the NFL team starting around April, told reporters that “we’re focused on Arlington Park.”

• Warren also spoke of the need to come up with a “very creative solution to our stadium situation and create an atmosphere that becomes a 365-day environment.”
• The Bears have yet to close a 326-acre land deal for the Arlington Heights racetrack, which they agreed to buy for $197.2 million in 2021.
• The team also needs to reach a deal with the town, which will likely involve impact studies regarding transportation, traffic, and economic benefits.

Chicago hasn’t given up hope on keeping the team. The city released renderings earlier this month for a $2.2 billion domed stadium. Former team president Ted Phillips said there was “no Plan B” beyond moving to Arlington Heights.

Big Bear Plans

The team has sketched out designs on a new entertainment district anchored by a $5 billion domed stadium. The team is hoping to build a venue that could host the Super Bowl, College Football Playoffs, and the Final Four.

Since the team’s lease at Soldier Field runs through 2033, the Bears would have to pay a contractual fee if they left before then.