In a surprising twist, the Kansas City Chiefs' decision to relocate from their storied Arrowhead Stadium to a new $3 billion facility in Olathe, Kansas, has sparked intense debate. The move, set for 2031, includes plans for a new headquarters and training facility in Wyandotte County, drawing both excitement and ire.
Missouri House Speaker Pro-Tem Chad Perkins has voiced strong opposition, suggesting that the Chiefs should be evicted from Arrowhead Stadium immediately. His frustration stems from what he perceives as the team's abandonment of Missouri, despite the state’s longstanding support.
Perkins didn't mince words, stating, "Arrowhead Stadium is owned by the Jackson County Sports Authority. If I were them, I'd tell the Chiefs to pack up and leave now. Let them play at a high school field if they must."
The Chiefs, however, emphasize the positive economic impact of their move, projecting the creation of over 20,000 jobs and an estimated $4.4 billion boost to the Kansas economy. Kansas Lieutenant Governor David Toland hailed it as "the largest economic win in Kansas history."
Despite these optimistic forecasts, Missouri officials revealed that the Chiefs turned down a $1.5 billion offer to remain at Arrowhead. Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas expressed disappointment, calling the decision a setback for the city.
Even Chiefs' star tight end Travis Kelce shared his mixed emotions about leaving Arrowhead, a venue synonymous with the team's recent successes. "Moving to the outskirts offers new opportunities, but leaving Arrowhead and the Missouri side is bittersweet," Kelce admitted on his podcast, New Heights.
In response to the move, Perkins has also proposed legislation to prevent Missouri residents from owning Chiefs-branded license plates in the future. This proposal is currently under consideration in the state legislature and aims to sever emblem agreements between Missouri and the team.
"If you're going to relocate to Kansas, why should Missouri continue issuing license plates for a Kansas-based business?" Perkins questioned, highlighting the complexity of state loyalties in professional sports.
As the Chiefs prepare for this monumental transition, the ripple effects on both sides of the state line are just beginning to unfold.