The Chicago Bears are seeking a new stadium in Northwest Indiana due to stalled state support, despite pledging $2B in private funds and remaining committed to Chicago.

The Chicago Bears are expanding their search for a new stadium beyond their Arlington Heights site to include Northwest Indiana, citing stalled state support for infrastructure funding and a lack of legislative progress. While the team remains committed to Chicago and has pledged over $2 billion in private investment, it says it’s pursuing all credible options to build a modern, world-class venue. The move follows state leaders indicating the Arlington Heights project won’t be a 2026 priority, despite economic benefits. The Bears, who have played at Soldier Field since 1971, are in playoff contention and face a key game against the Green Bay Packers. Illinois Governor JB Pritzker criticized the announcement, calling it a "startling slap in the face" to fans, while Cook County officials expressed disappointment over the potential shift.