The Kansas City Chiefs took another major step toward their future home on Tuesday, announcing two finalists in the design process for the franchise’s planned $3 billion stadium in Kansas.
The team confirmed that MANICA and Populous advanced to the final stage following extensive RFQ and RFP reviews. The announcement comes just weeks after the Chiefs revealed they will leave Arrowhead Stadium in Missouri for a new domed facility in Wyandotte County, Kansas, expected to open at the start of the 2031 NFL season.
Chiefs president Mark Donovan said the organization was excited to move forward.
“We’re thrilled to take this next step in our new stadium journey and announce the two finalists in our search for lead designer,” Donovan said.
“The Kansas City region is the central hub of global sports and entertainment venue architecture and design, so we didn’t need to go far to identify the top options to explore final concepts for the future home of Chiefs Kingdom.”
Kansas City Chiefs Stadium Finalists Include MANICA and Populous
We’ve narrowed down our search for a lead designer for our new stadium to two world-class Kansas City-area firms.
Both firms bring global experience to the project.
MANICA’s portfolio includes Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, Chase Center in San Francisco, Nashville’s New Nissan Stadium, Oklahoma City’s new arena, and the New Milan Stadium at San Siro in Italy.
MANICA president David Manica said the firm aims to honor the franchise’s legacy while elevating the fan experience.
“Our entire team would be thrilled to partner with the Kansas City Chiefs to help bring their new home to life,” Manica said. “The Chiefs are a storied franchise and we envision a stadium that exemplifies the organization’s championship mentality and the awe-inspiring spirit of our beloved Arrowhead Stadium.”
Populous, which was founded in Kansas City, has designed Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London, New Highmark Stadium in Buffalo, Sphere in Las Vegas, and major international venues across Europe, Asia, and Africa.
“For more than 40 years, Populous has proudly called Kansas City home,” said Scott Radecic, co-founder and global director of Populous. “From here, we have redefined modern sports venue design, creating iconic places that unite communities and transform how fans connect with their teams and each other.”
The Chiefs said this is the first of several updates planned for 2026 as the design process continues.
Chiefs Confirm Kansas Move With $3 Billion Stadium and Mixed-Use Development
In late December, the Chiefs officially announced they will relocate from Arrowhead Stadium to Kansas after Kansas lawmakers unanimously approved STAR bonds to cover up to 70% of the project’s cost.
Chiefs chairman and CEO Clark Hunt said the decision centered on long-term growth.
“We made a decision as a family that this was the right opportunity and the best for the organization for several reasons,” Hunt said, via ESPN. “It’s about the fans.”
He added, “This will give Chiefs Kingdom a state-of-the-art facility for multiple generations, a building that can last for at least 50 or 60 years. We believe it’s the best thing for the region.”
The fixed-roof stadium will anchor a massive mixed-use district that could include dining, shopping, offices, hotels, residential spaces, and entertainment venues. State estimates project more than 20,000 construction jobs and $4.4 billion in economic impact during development, with an additional $1 billion annually once operational.
Funding will come through a public-private partnership, with 60% covered by STAR bonds and Kansas sports development funds, and 40% privately funded. The Hunt family also committed $1 billion toward surrounding development.
Kansas Governor Laura Kelly confirmed the stadium will be located in Wyandotte County, with potential interest near Kansas Speedway and The Legends entertainment district, home to Sporting Kansas City’s Children’s Mercy Park.
Kansas City Chiefs Take Major Step Toward New Arrowhead Stadium