Chicago Stars Announce 2026 Move to Northwestern Medicine Field

The Chicago Stars have announced they will move their home games to Northwestern Medicine Field at Martin Stadium in Evanston for the 2026 National Women’s Soccer League season, ending a decade-long tenure at SeatGeek Stadium in Bridgeview. The team will debut at Martin Stadium in a September 7 match against the Orlando Pride before making it their full-time home the following season. The 12,000-seat lakefront stadium, which offers scenic views of Lake Michigan and Chicago’s skyline, was originally built as a temporary home for Northwestern football and features artificial turf, a change from the Stars' previous grass venue. Club president Karen Leetzow described the move as a historic step and part of broader efforts to revitalize the franchise, including the recent hiring of head coach Martin Sjogren and international player acquisitions. Despite the relocation, the Stars' long-term stadium plans remain uncertain, as they explore the possibility of building a new stadium amid challenges related to site and funding, while other Chicago sports franchises pursue stadium projects. The move aims to improve accessibility and fan experience, addressing past attendance struggles linked to SeatGeek Stadium’s inconvenient location and low turnout.