Chicago Bears Pin Blame on One Man for Collapse of Downtown Stadium Deal
June 2, 2025 | Chicago, IL — After months of negotiations, planning, and public anticipation, the Chicago Bears’ proposed downtown stadium has officially been shelved—and the organization is placing the blame squarely on one man.
In a pointed statement released Monday morning, the Bears publicly criticized Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson, accusing him of obstructing progress on what the team called a “transformational opportunity for the city.” The proposed domed stadium, which was set to rise on the lakefront near Soldier Field, had been touted as a multi-billion-dollar project that would modernize the team’s home and potentially bring major events—such as the Super Bowl or Final Four—to Chicago.
“We have exhausted every effort to build a world-class venue that benefits the city, its residents, and the future of the Chicago Bears,” the team said in the statement. “Unfortunately, Mayor Johnson’s refusal to collaborate in good faith and provide the necessary public infrastructure support has made it clear that Chicago is no longer a viable option.”
The team’s frustration has been mounting for months, but Monday’s announcement marked the first time the organization directly named Mayor Johnson as the reason for the project’s failure.
Sources close to the negotiations say the sticking point was a lack of commitment from the city to invest in the infrastructure surrounding the proposed site. The Bears sought city and state assistance with transportation upgrades, parking, and environmental cleanup—support that Mayor Johnson repeatedly questioned.
“We are not going to write blank checks for billionaire owners,” Johnson said in a recent interview. “Our administration is focused on equitable development and prioritizing the needs of our communities.”
That response didn’t sit well with the Bears, who had hoped Johnson would be more flexible, especially with the city’s economy potentially benefiting from job creation and increased tourism revenue tied to the stadium.
Tensions grew even more strained in recent weeks as the Bears resumed talks with officials in Arlington Heights—a northwest suburb where the team previously purchased a 326-acre parcel with stadium development in mind. Many now believe a return to the suburban project is all but certain.
“We’re disappointed, not just for ourselves, but for the fans and the city,” said Bears President Kevin Warren. “We envisioned a project that could redefine downtown Chicago’s lakefront. That vision deserved leadership that could rise to the moment. Unfortunately, we didn’t get that.”
Reactions have been mixed across the city. Some residents and business leaders expressed regret over the missed opportunity, while others applauded Johnson for resisting public financing of a private enterprise.
With the downtown stadium plan dead, attention now shifts back to Arlington Heights, where local leaders have reportedly re-engaged the Bears in talks about zoning, transportation, and tax incentives.
The Chicago Bears may still be playing in Soldier Field for now, but after today’s announcement, it’s clear that their long-term future lies elsewhere—and that a breakdown in trust between team ownership and City Hall has changed the game entirely.
