National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) club Chicago Stars FC has named Northwestern Medicine Field at Martin Stadium as the club’s new home for the 2026 season.
The Chicago Stars said the 12,000-seat stadium was built as the interim home for Northwestern University football and offers an intimate viewing experience where fans can feel a part of the action from all sections throughout the stadium.
With the stadium just a short walk from downtown Evanston, fans can take advantage of restaurants, entertainment or enjoy the lakefront before they arrive at the Stadium.
In addition to area attractions, fans can also participate in activities within the Chicago Stars FC Fan Zone, presented by Jameson, prior to the match that will include games, music, food and beverages, to create a fun festival-like atmosphere for fans to enjoy prior to the match.
Northwestern Medicine Field at Martin Stadium for sponsorship reasons is an outdoor sports and recreation facility on the campus of Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois.
It is the home stadium of the Northwestern Wildcats soccer and lacrosse teams, as well as the current temporary home stadium of the school’s football team during the construction of its new permanent stadium. The venue was temporarily enlarged in mid-2024 in order to accommodate the interim tenancy of the football program.
Chicago Stars President Karen Leetzow said, “This move to Northwestern Medicine Field at Martin Stadium in 2026 marks a historic step for the club and a new era for the Chicago Stars.
“This is just one step in a series of changes, including the recent hiring of renowned head coach, Martin Sjogren, exciting international player acquisitions and other incredible initiatives that are soon to be announced and will set the club on a new trajectory.”
Northwestern Medicine Field at Martin Stadium sits on the shore of Lake Michigan, offering unmatched views of Chicago’s skyline; a picturesque backdrop and vibrant atmosphere for fans.
Evanston Mayor Daniel Biss said, “I am happy to welcome the Chicago Stars to Evanston! The club’s commitment to our community through their youth programming and their collaboration with our local businesses will serve as an inspiration for the next generation and create a strong connection between the club and our community,”
Combe Family Vice President and Director of Athletics Mark Jackson said, “What began as a temporary lakefront home for Northwestern football has quickly become a unique venue that has welcomed collegiate, professional and international competition — and the response from athletes and fans has been tremendous.
“Having the Chicago Stars choose Northwestern Medicine Field at Martin Stadium as their home for the 2026 season is a wonderful opportunity to showcase the venue in a new way for our community. We are excited to grow our partnership with Chicago Stars FC and to continue welcoming athletes and fans to the lakefront.”
Noelle Schmitt, Chicago Stars director of community, said, “We wanted to establish a presence in Evanston, not just for our match there in September, but knowing we could make the city our home in 2026.
“We are looking to create genuine relationships with local businesses that we can grow over time and add value to the community through our platform.”
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