The Chicago Stars Transition to Martin Stadium
The Chicago Stars are set to transition to Martin Stadium at Northwestern University for the 2026 National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) season, marking a significant change after ten years of playing at SeatGeek Stadium. The decision comes as the Stars prepare for their upcoming match against the Orlando Pride, which will take place at the newly chosen venue in Evanston, Illinois, a facility that seats 12,000 spectators along the picturesque lakefront.
Challenges Faced by the Franchise
This relocation represents a crucial step for the struggling franchise, which has been facing poor attendance figures at SeatGeek Stadium, located in Bridgeview. The average turnout has been disappointing, with only a few thousand fans attending each game, making it one of the least attended teams in the league. The Stars’ president, Karen Leetzow, described this move as
“a new era”
and part of an ongoing series of improvements needed to revamp the team’s prospects, which currently sits near the bottom of the NWSL standings with just one victory in 18 matches.
Ownership Insights and Future Plans
Laura Ricketts, who became the majority owner of the Stars in 2023 and is also part of the family behind the Chicago Cubs, emphasized that the previous stadium’s location and accessibility posed significant challenges to the franchise’s growth. She acknowledged,
“the stadium and the location is one of the biggest challenges slash opportunities for this team”
and admitted that improvements are necessary.
Additionally, there have been discussions surrounding the possibility of constructing a new stadium specifically for the Stars. However, such a project is complex and lengthy, especially within the urban landscape of Chicago. While Ricketts and Leetzow are pushing for public funding to support this initiative, Stars officials and players have made appearances before local government representatives to advocate for inclusion in any potential city projects, especially with the Chicago Bears and White Sox also seeking new home venues.
Fan Engagement and Attendance Milestones
Meanwhile, there have also been conversations about how this change might benefit fan engagement. Recent years have seen the Stars partnering with Chicago Fire FC for doubleheaders at Soldier Field. Notably, last season marked a significant attendance milestone with over 35,000 fans attending a match at Wrigley Field, setting a new league record, which was later eclipsed when Bay FC attracted over 40,000 for a game in San Francisco.
Looking Ahead
Although Martin Stadium will offer a different playing surface, transitioning from natural grass to artificial turf, it does have the advantage of being more easily reachable via the city’s subway system, albeit with the nearest stop still a considerable distance from the venue. Mark Jackson, Northwestern University’s athletics director, expressed enthusiasm about the venue, stating,
“What began as a temporary lakefront home for Northwestern football has quickly become a unique venue that has welcomed collegiate, professional and international competition — and the response from athletes and fans has been tremendous.”
As football activity at Ryan Field – the university’s larger football facility – is postponed for renovations, the Stars will occupy Martin Stadium during this pivotal season. The move to Northwestern signifies an attempt to revitalize the franchise and enhance its connection with Chicago’s vibrant sports community.
