The Chicago Red Stars found themselves in a predicament through completely no fault of their own.
This September, the Riot Fest Music Festival will take place at SeatGeek Stadium in Bridgeview, Illinois, the Red Stars’ home. Originally, Riot Fest was set to take place in Chicago’s Douglass Park. But according to a report from The Athletic, the event’s organizers recently reshuffled those plans and are now poised to host the event at the Red Stars’ home.
The Red Stars issued a statement on Thursday that did not pull any punches on how they felt about the situation. Team President Karen Leetzow called the situation “unfair” and expressed displeasure over it.
A statement from Chicago Red Stars President, Karen Leetzow, regarding our September 21st match: pic.twitter.com/FHkmBbhnnB
— Chicago Red Stars (@chicagoredstars) June 12, 2024
“It is unfair and unfortunate to have our club put in this situation, shining a light on the vast discrepancies in the treatment of women’s professional sports versus men’s professional sports. We are committed to ensuring our players and fans have a first-rate experience on and off the pitch, and we are working diligently to find a solution that will ensure our September 21st game is a success,” the statement read.
Few people were happy with the decision after it was announced. It will be intriguing to follow as the Red Stars seek an alternate venue for the match.
