READY TO RODEO? NFR readies to open in Las Vegas with $16.2M payout

LAS VEGAS, NV – As the calendar flips to December, the rodeo world is set to converge on the dazzling lights of Las Vegas for the highly anticipated 66th annual Wrangler National Finals Rodeo (NFR), where the top cowboys and cowgirls in the country will battle for the prestigious title of World Champion across eight grueling events, all taking place at the iconic Thomas & Mack Center from December 5-14, 2024. 

The National Finals Rodeo extended its agreement to remain in Las Vegas through 2035 and will pay more than $264 million to the competitors and stock contractors.

Las Vegas Events will contribute an additional $1.3 million this year and in 2025 as a signing bonus.

The prize money for this year’s event from Dec. 5-14 will be more than $16.2 million and will be $17.5 million next year. The amount will then increase by $1 million each year through the life of the new contract.

The NFR, often called the Super Bowl of Rodeo, has been in Las Vegas since 1985, except in 2020 when COVID-19 restrictions in Nevada temporarily relocated the event to Arlington, Texas.

The Stakes are High
With millions of dollars in prize money up for grabs, the pressure is immense as the elite competitors, who have spent the entire year qualifying through the rodeo circuit, will take center stage under the bright lights of Vegas. Each night will see a fierce display of skill and athleticism in events like bareback riding, steer wrestling, team roping, saddle bronc riding, tie-down roping, barrel racing, and bull riding, with the crowd roaring with every daring maneuver. 

New Era of Review System
This year marks a significant change with the introduction of a “review system” where select judges’ calls can be challenged, adding another layer of intrigue to the competition. 

Beyond the Arena
While the rodeo action inside the arena is the main attraction, the NFR is also a vibrant festival with a bustling atmosphere. The surrounding areas will be buzzing with live country music concerts, shopping opportunities at the Cowboy Christmas market, and various rodeo-themed events, turning Vegas into a cowboy haven for the duration of the competition. 

Top Contenders to Watch
Some of the names to look out for include seasoned veterans like Sage Kimzey in bareback riding, reigning world champion Tyler Magnus in bull riding, and the dynamic team roping duo of Clay O’Brien Cooper and Jake Barnes. 

A Moment of Glory
For the cowboys and cowgirls who reach the pinnacle of the NFR, it’s not just about the prize money, but the chance to etch their name in rodeo history as a World Champion, solidifying their legacy in the sport. 

Are you ready for the excitement of the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo? 

Key points:

• Date: December 5th – 14th 
• Venue: Thomas & Mack Center, Las Vegas 
• Highlights: New review system, top rodeo stars competing for World Champion title, vibrant entertainment atmosphere