Chicago Bears Seek New Stadium After Decades at Soldier Field

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The Chicago Bears, one of the oldest franchises in the NFL, have long sought to build their own stadium after playing at the aging Soldier Field for decades. The team's ownership has identified Arlington Heights, Illinois as their preferred destination for a new stadium, though efforts to secure a public-private partnership deal have stalled over the years.

Why it matters

The Bears' potential move from Chicago's Soldier Field, a publicly-owned stadium, to a privately-financed venue in Arlington Heights would mark a significant shift in the team's relationship with the city. It also raises questions about the role of public funding for professional sports teams and the impact on local communities.

The details

The Bears' desire for a new stadium dates back to 1975, when team patriarch George Halas first identified Arlington Heights as a potential location. However, various attempts by the Bears' ownership over the past 50 years to build a new stadium have not come to fruition, with the team remaining at the aging Soldier Field.

• The Chicago Bears have played at Soldier Field since 1971.
• In 1975, Bears founder George Halas identified Arlington Heights as the team's preferred destination for a new stadium.
• The Bears' ownership has made multiple attempts over the past 50 years to secure a deal for a new stadium in Arlington Heights.

What’s next

The Bears' ownership is expected to continue negotiations with state and local officials in Illinois to secure a public-private partnership deal for a new stadium in Arlington Heights.