In a stunning development, Kansas State House Speaker Dan Hawkins announced today that the state of Kansas expects to finalize a deal with the Kansas City Chiefs and Kansas City Royals by June 30th, potentially paving the way for one or both franchises to relocate across state lines.
The news comes amid ongoing tensions between the teams and officials in Missouri, where both franchises currently play. The Chiefs (NFL) and Royals (MLB) have long called the Kansas City metropolitan area home, but their stadium situations have been a point of contention.
With the Chiefs’ Arrowhead Stadium and the Royals’ Kauffman Stadium both aging—despite recent renovations—the teams have explored options for new facilities. Missouri’s reluctance to commit substantial public funding has opened the door for Kansas to make an aggressive play.
Why Are the Chiefs and Royals Considering a Move?
1. Stadium Financing Disputes in Missouri
The Chiefs and Royals have been negotiating with Jackson County, Missouri, for months over stadium funding. In April 2024, Jackson County voters rejected a sales tax extension that would have helped fund renovations for Arrowhead Stadium and a new downtown ballpark for the Royals.
This setback forced both teams to explore alternatives, including:
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Renegotiating with Missouri under different terms
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Exploring private financing options (unlikely for full stadium costs)
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Moving to a new location—potentially in Kansas
2. Kansas’ Aggressive Incentives
Kansas lawmakers have been preparing for this opportunity. Last year, the state passed the “Attracting Professional Sports to Kansas Act”, which allows for state bonds to finance up to $1 billion for stadium projects.
Key incentives include:
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Tax breaks for the teams and associated developments
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Infrastructure funding for roads, parking, and utilities
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Revenue-sharing models to offset public costs
Kansas Governor Laura Kelly has been vocal about bringing major sports teams to the state, particularly to the Kansas City, Kansas, area, where the Village West district near the Legends shopping center could serve as a prime location.
What Would a Deal Look Like?
While details are still emerging, sources indicate the following possibilities:
Option 1: Both Teams Move to Kansas
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A shared sports complex near the Wyandotte County area
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A new retail and entertainment district similar to The Legends
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Potential Super Bowl and MLB All-Star Game bids for the new venues
Option 2: Only the Royals Move
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The Royals have been more vocal about needing a new stadium, making them the more likely candidate for relocation.
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The Chiefs could remain at Arrowhead with smaller-scale upgrades.
Option 3: A Temporary Compromise
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A short-term deal keeping the teams in Missouri while Kansas finalizes long-term plans.
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This could involve bridge financing while stadium designs are finalized.
Economic and Political Implications
For Kansas:
Job creation in construction and hospitality
Increased tourism from games and events
Enhanced prestige as a major sports destination
High public cost—taxpayer funds could exceed $1 billion
Potential backlash if the deal is seen as corporate welfare
For Missouri:
Loss of major economic drivers if teams leave
Political embarrassment after failing to secure deals
Possible savings by not subsidizing billionaire owners
For the Teams:
State-of-the-art facilities with modern revenue streams
Long-term stability with favorable lease terms
Fan backlash from traditionalists who prefer Missouri
Fan Reactions and Next Steps
The news has sparked fierce debate among fans:
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Missouri loyalists are urging last-minute negotiations.
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Kansas supporters are celebrating the potential economic win.
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Neutral observers question whether public funds should subsidize pro sports.
Key Dates to Watch:
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June 30th: Deadline for Kansas’ deal
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July 2024: Possible special session in Missouri to counteroffer
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2025-2026: Potential construction begins if a deal is finalized
A Defining Moment for Kansas City Sports
If Kansas succeeds in luring the Chiefs, Royals, or both, it would mark one of the biggest sports relocations in recent history. The next three weeks will be critical as Missouri scrambles to respond and Kansas finalizes its offer.
One thing is certain: The Kansas City sports landscape is on the verge of a seismic shift.
Stay tuned for updates as this story develops.
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What do you think? Should Kansas spend taxpayer money on stadiums? Should Missouri fight harder to keep the teams? Sound off in the comments!
