Sports Betting At Soldier Field? Report Says Chicago Park District Rejected Idea

The Chicago Bears and the Chicago Park District( CPD ) are at odds over sports betting at Soldier Field, according to emails obtained by WBEZ.

The Garden City owns Soldier Field.

The emails revealed that Ted Phillips, the President and CEO of the Bears, had intentions to set up a sports betting lounge at the venue. However, his proposal did not materialize.

The lounge may not have been a legitimate sportsbook in Illinois, but the idea was to have ambassadors assisting people with online betting. The presence of multiple TVs streaming live NFL games on Sundays was intended to evoke the atmosphere of a sportsbook.

During the game, it seemed as though the NFL had banned in-field casinos. However, the Arizona Cardinals have since struck a deal to allow them.

Phillips’ emails revealed that the Bears were interested due to the potential advertising revenue. Furthermore, Phillips proposed a 20% share for the CPD.

Michael Kelly, the Director of CPD, however, responded to the ball by stating:

“Chasing the opportunities mentioned in your letter currently wouldn’t be beneficial. My team is also working on a comprehensive plan for the plaza and open area adjacent to the northernmost point of Soldier Field. As the project advances, we will certainly consider your thoughts and views at the appropriate time.”

Phillips fought back by accusing the CPD of not engaging in discussions, written communication, and good faith.

“We find it disappointing that more than a year has passed since our last communication, and you have chosen not to engage in sincere discussions about a potential opportunity. This opportunity could not only benefit the CPD financially but also promote the name of the Chicago Bears.”

Only a fortnight after penning that email, the Bears declared that they had made a bid to purchase Arlington International Racecourse.

Bears claim that the Arlington Park present is related.

A Bears spokesperson stated that the quest in Arlington Park has no relation to the sports betting controversy.

Nonetheless, the Bears have been in long-standing disputes with the CPD. The main points of contention usually revolve around structural improvements and lease agreements, and there have been instances where the team has threatened to relocate.

One might reasonably question if the history of conflict reached a climax during the summer, even though the resistance to sports betting by the CPD may not be the primary cause of the team contemplating relocation.

It appears that the Bears are a strong contender to end up at Arlington Park.

Roy Arnold, the former president of Arlington International Racecourse, stated that despite his team purchasing the track for $120 million, Churchill Downs refuses to sell the property to anyone wanting to continue horse racing or casino gambling.

That description applies to The Bears. Even if they are chosen by Churchill Downs and end up offering retail sports betting, they are still far from being a competitive racino.

Despite the Sports Wagering Act permitting Illinois sports venues to host sportsbooks, there are currently no retail sportsbooks available at Chicago stadiums.

Because of this, groups from Chicago are lobbying to get the town’s support.

You Daley facilitate the establishment of sportsbooks in Chicago stadiums?

John R. Daley, associated with The White Sox, is advocating to the Chicago City Council for sports betting at venues, representing Cook County Commissioner John Daley and the brother of ex-Mayor Richard M. Daley.

The Chicago Sun-Times also supports the Bears, Cubs, Blackhawks, and Bulls, according to reports.

When asked why Daley had been hired, the White Sox responded in a speech:

John is knowledgeable, seasoned, and highly regarded in his profession. Currently, all groups, including professionals and activists, are collaborating to pass this particular law, which is favored by the government. It has the backing of both the Legislature and the governor. We believe that most of the town committee is also in agreement.

In July, an ordinance was introduced by Alderman Walter Burnett (27th) that aims to remove the sports betting ban in Chicago.

As per his request, the town would levy a charge of $50,000 for a passport and $25,000 for its annual renewal. This is in addition to charges by the Illinois Gaming Board.

“At the moment,” said Lori Lightfoot, the mayor of Chicago.

“Sports betting is a state law, initially established by the General Assembly in 2019, which I fully support. I don’t believe it will compromise our plans to construct a future casino and we will ensure it doesn’t.”