Chicago Stars Win Approval to Play 16 Home Matches at Northwestern Stadium in 2026

Chicago Stars FC will play 16 home matches at Northwestern University’s Martin Stadium in 2026 after their lease at Bridgeport’s SeatGeek Stadium expires, with city officials approving the move as a temporary measure pending further zoning approvals. The club will test the new venue by hosting a one-off "Lakefront Faceoff" match against the Orlando Pride on September 7, 2025, marking the first professional women’s soccer game at the lakefront stadium. This move is part of the team’s search for a more accessible and improved stadium, as SeatGeek Stadium’s lease ends and the club seeks to expand its footprint beyond the south suburbs. While the temporary stadium offers appealing lakefront views, concerns remain about the venue’s suitability, including challenges posed by Lake Michigan’s wind and the stadium’s temporary status. The new Ryan Field, Northwestern’s intended permanent football stadium, is scheduled to open in 2026, leaving Martin Stadium available for other tenants like the Stars. Although playing in Evanston is not ideal for the team’s Chicago identity, the arrangement is seen as a practical step toward securing a better home venue.