2026 NCAA DI Women’s Lacrosse Championship Heads to Northwestern’s Martin Stadium for First Time
The 2026 NCAA Division I Women’s Lacrosse Championship will make history by hosting its final weekend at Northwestern University’s Martin Stadium in Evanston, Illinois. This marks the first time the prestigious tournament will conclude at the Wildcats’ home field, bringing the nation’s top teams to the shores of Lake Michigan for a high-stakes showdown.
Championship Schedule and Format
The 2026 tournament will follow a single-elimination format with 29 teams—15 automatic qualifiers and 14 at-large selections. The action kicks off on Friday, May 8, with first-round games streamed on ESPN+. The championship game is set for Sunday, May 24, capping a 16-day sprint through the bracket.
Key Dates and Broadcast Info
- Selection Demonstrate: Sunday, May 3, at 9 p.m. ET on ESPNU
- First Round: Friday, May 8 (ESPN+)
- Second Round: Sunday, May 10 (ESPN+)
- Quarterfinals: Thursday, May 14 (ESPNU)
- Semifinals: Friday, May 22 (Martin Stadium, ESPNU)
- Championship: Sunday, May 24 (Martin Stadium, ESPNU)
Why Martin Stadium?
Northwestern’s Martin Stadium, officially known as Northwestern Medicine Field at Martin Stadium, has undergone significant upgrades in recent years to position itself as a premier venue for collegiate and professional sports. The stadium’s 2024 renovation expanded its capacity to 12,023, making it one of the largest lacrosse-specific facilities in the Midwest. Its state-of-the-art turf surface and modern amenities provide an ideal setting for high-profile events like the NCAA Championship.
The venue is no stranger to lacrosse excellence. Northwestern’s women’s lacrosse program, led by head coach Kelly Amonte Hiller, has won eight national championships, including titles in 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2011, 2012, and 2023. The Wildcats’ dominance in the sport makes Martin Stadium a fitting stage for the 2026 final.
Beyond Lacrosse: A Multi-Sport Hub
While lacrosse is the focus for May 2026, Martin Stadium serves as a multi-sport hub for Northwestern and Chicago-area professional teams. The venue is the permanent home of the Wildcats’ soccer and lacrosse programs and is currently the temporary home of the football team during the construction of a new stadium. Starting in 2026, it will also host the Chicago Stars FC of the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), further cementing its role in the region’s sports landscape.
Recent Championship History
The 2026 tournament follows a dramatic 2025 final, where the North Carolina Tar Heels defeated Northwestern 12-8 to claim their fourth national title. The Tar Heels, coached by Jenny Levy, have emerged as a powerhouse in recent years, while Northwestern remains a perennial contender under Amonte Hiller.
Here’s a look at the past three NCAA DI women’s lacrosse champions:
| Year | Champion | Coach | Score | Runner-Up | Site |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | North Carolina | Jenny Levy | 12-8 | Northwestern | Foxborough, Mass. |
| 2024 | Boston College | Acacia Walker-Weinstein | 14-13 | Northwestern | Cary, N.C. |
| 2023 | Northwestern | Kelly Amonte Hiller | 18-6 | Boston College | Cary, N.C. |
What to Expect in 2026
The 2026 championship promises to be one of the most competitive in recent memory. With perennial powers like North Carolina, Northwestern, and Boston College expected to contend, the tournament could feature a rematch of the 2025 final or a fresh face in the title game. The move to Martin Stadium adds a new dynamic, offering fans a chance to experience the excitement of NCAA lacrosse in the heart of the Midwest.
For Evanston and the greater Chicago area, the event represents a unique opportunity to showcase the region’s passion for lacrosse. Local organizers are already planning fan festivals, youth clinics, and community engagement initiatives to celebrate the sport’s growth in the area.
Key Takeaways
- The 2026 NCAA DI Women’s Lacrosse Championship will be held at Northwestern’s Martin Stadium, marking the first time the event concludes in the Midwest.
- The tournament runs from May 8 to May 24, with the championship game airing on ESPNU.
- Martin Stadium’s 2024 renovation expanded its capacity to 12,023, making it one of the largest lacrosse-specific venues in the country.
- Northwestern’s women’s lacrosse program has won eight national titles, the most recent in 2023.
- The 2025 champion, North Carolina, defeated Northwestern 12-8 in the final.
FAQ
How can I watch the 2026 NCAA DI Women’s Lacrosse Championship?
The selection show will air on ESPNU on May 3. First- and second-round games will be streamed on ESPN+, while the quarterfinals, semifinals, and championship game will air on ESPNU.
Where is Martin Stadium located?
Martin Stadium is located at 2235 Campus Drive, Evanston, IL, on the campus of Northwestern University. The stadium is easily accessible via public transit, including the CTA Purple Line at Noyes Station.
Will there be tickets available for the general public?
Ticket information for the 2026 championship has not yet been released. Fans are encouraged to monitor the NCAA’s official women’s lacrosse page and Northwestern Athletics for updates.
What other sports are played at Martin Stadium?
In addition to lacrosse, Martin Stadium hosts Northwestern’s soccer teams, rugby matches (including the Chicago Tempest of Women’s Elite Rugby), and will serve as the home of the Chicago Stars FC (NWSL) starting in 2026. It is also the temporary home of the Wildcats’ football program during stadium construction.
Looking Ahead
The 2026 NCAA DI Women’s Lacrosse Championship at Martin Stadium is more than just a tournament—it’s a celebration of the sport’s growth and a testament to Northwestern’s role as a lacrosse powerhouse. As teams prepare for the season, fans can look forward to a thrilling three weeks of competition, culminating in a historic final on the shores of Lake Michigan.