The Kansas City Chiefs are already packing their bags. After hours of rumors surrounding their move, the front office, led by owner Clark Hunt, confirmed the date they will leave the historic Arrowhead Stadium for a new stadium in Kansas.
The move had been in the works for some years now. With the lease at Arrowhead about to expire, the team was evaluating options that made more financial sense.
The state of Missouri, which has been home to the team for the last few decades, prepared an attractive package that included the renovation of the old stadium and tax incentives.
However, as Hunt just announced, the offer from Kansas, including a new stadium, was ultimately the one that convinced the front office, which today began the countdown to the move.
Chiefs set date for farewell to Arrowhead Stadium
In the statement, the Chiefs owner announced:
“We have entered into an agreement with the State of Kansas to host Chiefs football beginning with the 2031 NFL season.”
The most recent contract renewal with Arrowhead Stadium stipulates that the team will remain at this venue until 2031. This makes it clear that the 2030-2031 season will be the team’s last in their current home.
However, the new stadium is just the beginning of the deal. “In the years ahead, we look forward to designing and building a state-of-the-art domed stadium and mixed-use district in Wyandotte County.”
The agreement includes “A best-in-class training facility, team headquarters, and mixed-use district in Olathe, totaling a minimum of $4 billion of development in the State of Kansas.”
A sad farewell to the old home
Although there are still almost six years until the move, Hunt has already begun to say goodbye to Arrowhead Stadium. “I also want to thank the State of Missouri, Jackson County, and the City of Kansas City for their long-standing partnership.”
However, he emphasized that, beyond the stadium, the fans are what truly matter. “Seats don’t make noise, concrete doesn’t intimidate opponents, parking lots don’t cook barbecue. You do.”
“What makes Chiefs gamedays so special is you,” Hunt concluded, making it clear that he wants Missouri fans to follow them across the state line to keep the tradition alive
Read the full article here
