Here’s a move that’s sure to electrify soccer fans across Chicago and beyond: Chicago Stars FC has locked down Canadian international star Julia Grosso with a new multi-year contract, keeping her in the Windy City through 2028. But here’s where it gets even more exciting—this isn’t just a renewal; it’s a testament to Grosso’s skyrocketing impact on the team and the league.
Grosso herself couldn’t hide her enthusiasm. “I’m thrilled to continue my journey with the Chicago Stars,” she shared. “We’ve built a solid foundation here, and I’m eager to see how much further we can go—both on the field and in the community. Bringing a championship to Chicago? That’s the dream, and I’m all in.”
Chicago Stars General Manager Richard Feuz echoed her sentiment, but with a hint of what’s to come. “Julia’s potential is just starting to unfold in this league,” he said. “After a full season, we’ve seen glimpses of her leadership and skill. With this extended commitment, we’re not just keeping a player—we’re nurturing a star who’ll shape our future.”
Let’s rewind for a moment: Grosso first signed with the Stars in July 2024, initially through 2026. But with her contract still a year from expiring, she’s now added two more seasons to her Chicago story. And this is the part most people miss—her journey here began almost seamlessly. Fresh off Canada’s 2024 Paris Olympics roster, the 2020 Olympic gold medalist hit the ground running. Her debut? A 90-minute masterclass against Racing Louisville FC on August 24, 2024, boasting a staggering 90.91% passing accuracy. By the end of that season, she’d logged 10 starts, a team-high 88.82% passing accuracy, and created four chances—all while settling into a new league.
Fast forward to this year, and Grosso has been nothing short of phenomenal. Her first NWSL goal? A jaw-dropping strike against Washington Spirit on May 10, where she danced past defenders like they were standing still. Her first assist? A pinpoint corner delivery to Ally Schlegel in August. And in Chicago’s September 7 clash with Orlando, she delivered not one but two goal contributions—first setting up Jameese Joseph, then scoring a stunner herself after a 60-yard sprint. Even in a nail-biting match against Utah Royals FC, she forced a turnover to assist Micayla Johnson’s equalizer in the 86th minute. By season’s end, she’d created a team-high 25 chances, completed 251 passes into the final third, and maintained an 85.06% passing accuracy—all while adding two goals and three assists in 24 matches.
But here’s the controversial part: Is Grosso already one of the NWSL’s most underrated players? Her stats suggest she’s a game-changer, yet she’s often overshadowed by flashier names. What do you think? Is she flying under the radar, or is her time in the spotlight just beginning?
Internationally, Grosso’s been just as unstoppable. With Canada’s national team, she’s been a fixture in 2025, scoring crucial goals—including the lone strike in a Pinatar Cup draw with China and a clincher in a 3-0 win over Argentina. Her recent starts against Switzerland and the Netherlands in European friendlies prove she’s a cornerstone of the CANWNT’s future.
Looking ahead, 2026 will mark a new era for Grosso and the Stars as they move to Northwestern Medicine Field at Martin Stadium in Evanston. Over 10,000 fans packed the lakefront venue for her two-goal contribution on September 7, with Grosso herself crediting the stadium’s energy for the win. Want to be part of the action? Season Ticket Memberships for 2026 are available now at starsnextchapter.com.
So, here’s the question for you: With Grosso’s extension, is Chicago Stars FC now a legitimate contender for the NWSL title? Or is there still work to be done? Let us know in the comments—this conversation is just getting started!
