Pritzker Expresses Optimism About Keeping Bears Stadium in Illinois
Governor JB Pritzker has expressed increased optimism about securing a new stadium for the Chicago Bears within Illinois, with the possibility of the stadium being located in Chicago. This development comes as the election approaches, and Pritzker emphasizes that any…
Chicago, IL, October 19, 2026 —
Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker has expressed increased optimism that a new stadium for the Chicago Bears can be secured within the state, including the possibility of a site in Chicago. He has said that protecting taxpayers would be a priority in any deal.
The comments come as an election approaches. The information available does not specify which election, when it will take place, or whether the timing has affected discussions about the stadium.
No agreement has been identified, and the stadium’s location remains uncertain. Chicago is described as a possibility, not a confirmed site. The information provided does not name other locations under consideration or say whether the Bears have selected a preferred site.
Details of any proposed arrangement are also not available. No estimated project cost, public contribution, financing structure, construction schedule or specific taxpayer protections were provided. Pritzker’s emphasis on protecting taxpayers indicates a stated priority, but the available information does not explain how that priority would be addressed in a deal.
The Bears’ name is the only party identified in connection with the stadium, alongside Pritzker. No statements from the team, city officials or other parties were included. It is also unclear what steps, if any, remain before a location or agreement could be finalized.
For now, the development is Pritzker’s expressed optimism about keeping the project in Illinois, with Chicago among the possibilities. The available information does not establish whether that outcome is likely or when further decisions may be made.
Story summarized from the original created by Mitchell Armentrout on chicago.suntimes.com, see more information here.
