Chicago Bears near $4bn stadium deal in Indiana, governor says

The Chicago Bears are closing in on a decision for their new $4 billion stadium, with Indiana Governor Mike Braun stating that the franchise has a 'handshake partner' for a site in Hammond, Indiana. The move would end the team's long tenure at Soldier Field in Chicago.

The Bears have been weighing two main options: staying in Illinois at Arlington Heights or crossing the state line into Indiana. After months of stalled negotiations in Illinois, the Bears' board voted unanimously in early June to focus on the Hammond proposal.

Governor confirms progress

Governor Braun confirmed the development on Tuesday, noting that the Bears had faced a 'deaf ear' from Illinois officials for years. 'They know they’re dealing with somebody that’s a handshake business partner,' Braun said, adding that due diligence is ongoing but the deal 'looks good'.

• Bears have played at Soldier Field since 1921.
• Proposed stadium would seat approximately 65,000 fans.
• Hammond site is about 20 miles southeast of downtown Chicago.
• Indiana officials tout the facility as a year-round attraction for concerts, college football, and soccer.
• An official announcement is expected by early summer.

Local tourism officials envision the stadium as a 365-day destination, hosting events beyond NFL games. The Bears have not yet made a final announcement, but all signs point to Indiana as the likely new home.