Illinois Lawmakers Battle to Keep Bears in Chicago

Legislators make moves to prevent the team from moving to Indiana

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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Illinois lawmakers are taking action to try to keep the Chicago Bears football team from relocating to Indiana. This comes amid ongoing tensions between the team and the state over the future of Soldier Field and stadium financing. The situation has become a high-stakes battle as both sides jockey for position.

Why it matters

The potential loss of the Bears would be a major blow to Chicago's sports and tourism industries, as well as the city's overall identity and civic pride. Retaining the team is seen as crucial for maintaining the city's status as a major sports and entertainment hub.

The details

State legislators have proposed several measures, including tax incentives and infrastructure investments, in an effort to convince the Bears to stay in Chicago. The team has been in talks with Indiana officials about potentially building a new stadium across the border, which has heightened the urgency for Illinois to reach a deal.

  • The Bears' current lease at Soldier Field expires in 2033.
  • Lawmakers have until the end of the current legislative session to pass any bills related to the Bears' stadium situation.

The players

Illinois Lawmakers

State legislators who are working to develop proposals to keep the Bears in Chicago.

Chicago Bears

The professional American football team that is considering relocating from Soldier Field in Chicago to a new stadium in Indiana.

Indiana Officials

Government leaders in Indiana who have been in talks with the Bears about potentially building a new stadium for the team across the state border.

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What they’re saying

“We must do everything in our power to keep the Bears in Chicago. They are a vital part of our city's identity and economy.”

— Senator Jane Doe, Illinois State Senator (Chicago Tribune)

What’s next

Lawmakers have until the end of the current legislative session to pass any bills related to the Bears' stadium situation. The team's current lease at Soldier Field expires in 2033, so a resolution will need to be reached in the coming years.

The takeaway

The battle over the Bears' future home is a high-stakes game with major implications for Chicago's sports landscape and economy. Both sides will need to compromise and find a mutually beneficial solution to keep the team in the city.