Chicago Bears have officially confirmed their focus on building a new stadium on the site of the former Arlington Racecourse, ending hopes that the team would remain near Lake Michigan.

End of hopes to stay in Chicago

Bears president and CEO Kevin Warren communicated this decision to season ticket holders and on social media just before the season opener against the Minnesota Vikings, ending years of speculation about the team’s future. The club’s management emphasized that the new stadium project with a fixed roof in suburban Arlington Heights aims to host the Super Bowl starting in 2031.

© MANICA

First visualizations revealed

The first visualizations of the stadium in Arlington Heights were developed by architectural firm MANICA, known for its work on Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas and Chase Center in San Francisco. The project envisions a modern complex with a fully enclosed roof, allowing events to be held year-round. The stadium will accommodate 70,000 spectators, offering comfort with more restrooms, improved food services, and modern technologies to reduce wait times.

Spacious tailgating areas, parking lots, and a nearby metro station are planned around the stadium, greatly facilitating fan access. The entire site will become part of a larger entertainment complex, attracting visitors not only on game days but throughout the year.

The project is currently awaiting approval from the state of Illinois. If the legislation regarding financing passes in October, construction could begin this year, with completion planned before the 2028 season.