NFC North

Bears sign $197.2M purchase agreement for Arlington Heights racetrack land — taking next step in potential move from Soldier Field

CHICAGO — The Chicago Bears have signed a purchase agreement for Arlington International Racecourse, a move that takes the team a step closer toward securing property for a new stadium and leaving their longtime home at Soldier Field. The Bears on June 17 submitted one of multiple bids to purchase the Arlington Heights property, which Churchill Downs Inc. last winter announced would be up for sale for redevelopment. Bears President and CEO Ted Phillips said in a statement Wednesday morning that finalizing the agreement was the “critical next step in continuing our exploration of the property a…