The Kansas City Chiefs just got a major win off the field, and it came from Jefferson City, not Arrowhead Stadium. As speculation swirled about the franchise’s future home, Missouri’s top official made a bold move to help keep Patrick Mahomes’ team in the state.
Can Missouri Keep the Chiefs From Crossing the State Line?
Governor Mike Kehoe signed off on a legislative package over the weekend that could reshape the Chiefs’ long-term future. The deal, passed earlier in the week by lawmakers during a special session, includes hundreds of millions in financial aid to help convince the Chiefs and MLB’s Kansas City Royals to remain in Missouri.
Both franchises currently play at Truman Sports Complex in Kansas City, where Arrowhead Stadium and Kauffman Stadium share facilities. But with leases expiring in January 2031, time is ticking, and until now, Missouri had lagged behind.
In 2024, Jackson County voters shot down a sales tax extension that would’ve funded an $800 million renovation of Arrowhead. Kansas lawmakers quickly pounced, offering bonds to cover up to 70% of stadium costs and tempting both franchises with the possibility of a cross-border relocation. The Royals even purchased land in Kansas, fueling relocation rumors.
Missouri’s newly passed plan is a counterpunch, and a big one. The bill authorizes state-backed bonds for up to 50% of new or renovated stadiums, plus $50 million in tax credits for each project and additional local aid. But the clock is ticking: Kansas’ stadium offer expires June 30, and both teams have said they hope to finalize plans before then.
Will the Chiefs Stay in Kansas City?
While nothing’s official yet, both teams issued statements acknowledging the legislation’s significance. The Chiefs called it a “significant step forward,” while the Royals said it was “a very important piece” of their decision-making process. Still, neither franchise made a commitment.
The Chiefs have floated a $1.15 billion renovation plan for Arrowhead if they remain in Missouri. The Royals, meanwhile, appear set on building a new stadium entirely. The state’s third major team, the St. Louis Cardinals, would also qualify for aid if they took on a $500 million stadium project of their own.
Even as stadium subsidies stirred political debate, especially following a devastating May tornado in St. Louis, the bill cleared the House with strong support.
“We have the chance to maybe save what is the symbol of this state,” Rep. Jim Murphy said.
The Chiefs are already eyeing revenge on the field in 2025. Thanks to Kehoe’s signature, they may have a long-term home field to chase it from.