The NFL’s Chicago Bears are actively looking to leave historic Soldier Field in favor of building a new stadium in nearby Arlington Heights.
Just days after Arlington Heights mayor Tom Hayes indicated the Bears might move to his city, the Bears confirmed that they are considering buying the Arlington International Racecourse.
The Arlington International Racecourse sits about 30 miles from Soldier Field.
“We recently submitted a bid to purchase the Arlington International Racecourse property,” Bears President and CEO Ted Phillips said, according to Yahoo Sports. “It’s our obligation to explore every possible option to ensure we’re doing what’s best for our organization and its future. If selected, this step allows us to further evaluate the property and its potential.”
Chicago mayor Lori Lightfoot has acknowledged that the Bears have valid concerns. The Bears lease Soldier Field through the city but that agreement expires in 2033.
Lightfoot said she’s confident the Bears won’t move, suggesting the NFL wouldn’t allow them to if they tried.
