By Lesley Ryder
Chicago Stars FC will play the Orlando Pride at Northwestern’s Martin Stadium on September 7th, at the very edge of Lake Michigan.
"This match at Martin Stadium gives us the opportunity to bring our world-class athletes to the City of Evanston to showcase their abilities to new and returning fanbase at a wonderful location on the lakefront. As we often hear, when people get a chance to experience a Chicago Stars match, they are eager to come back for more," said Chicago Stars president, Karen Leetzow in the team’s press release.
The announcement marks the second home match for the Stars away from their usual home in Bridgeview this season. On June 14th, the team moves to Soldier Field for a doubleheader with the Chicago Fire as part of the team’s Chicago Celebration match. Last season, the club broke the NWSL attendance record with their match at Wrigley Field against Bay FC.
Martin Stadium can hold over 12,000 people. The Stars hope to create a high-energy environment with a party deck, and dedicated supporter’s and student sections. The release also noted an addition of several premium seating options, including boxes, club seats, and field side tables.
According to a report by Evanston Now, the Stars are exploring a move to the Lakefront stadium after their lease expires at the end of the year. The Stars are keen on finding a home closer to the Chicago city center. Bridgeview has been home to the club since 2016, but is inaccessible to city residents without a car, and the patience to commute west on a weekend. Comparatively, Evanston is accessible via the CTA Purple Line.
The Stars release emphasized building a deeper relationship with the city of Evanston.
In addition to the match planned for September, Chicago Stars FC will collaborate with local schools, community organizations, and neighborhood groups to bring programming to kids and local businesses—including youth soccer clinics and a summit for young professionals focused on leadership in women’s sports. Evanston families and youth will have special opportunities to engage with the Stars throughout the season.
A Stars representative said the emphasis was because “We want to grow our brand exposure around the city so there are extra things we want to do to help support and promote the September 7th match.”
When Evanston Now previously reached out for comment the Stars said they were “considering a variety of stadium options for the 2026 season.”
Martin Stadium is currently home to Northwestern’s Lacrosse, Soccer, and Football teams, and also plays host to Chicago Union Ultimate Frisbee, and Chicago Tempest of Women’s Elite Rugby.