World Series of Team Roping (WSTR) 2026: Schedule and Events - Yifarope

Team ropers chasing a steer in a Las Vegas arena during the December 2026 Finale

ReviewsNovember 5, 2026November 5, 2026No Comment

World Series of Team Roping (WSTR) 2026: Dates, Schedule, and Events

The World Series of Team Roping returns to Las Vegas from December 3 to December 13, 2026. This year marks Finale XX. It brings top ropers, big payouts, and thousands of fans to one famous venue. If you plan to compete, watch from the stands, or follow online, this guide gives you the key facts in one place.

Below, you will find the dates, the daily schedule, the main events, and the entry steps. Additionally, you will see travel tips and answers to common questions. Read on, and plan your trip with confidence.

What Is the Finale?

The Finale is the season-ending championship of the circuit. WSTR runs qualifying ropings in many states all year. Teams that win a qualifier earn a place in Las Vegas. Then they travel to chase a share of the prize pool.

The sport is team roping. Two riders work together. The header ropes the steer’s horns. The heeler ropes the hind legs. Fast, clean runs win the money. However, the format also rewards steady work, because teams often rope more than one steer.

The circuit also uses handicap numbers. Therefore, ropers face others at a similar skill level. A newer roper and a seasoned pro can both compete for large prizes. This approach keeps the contest fair and draws entries from across the country.

Dates, Location and Venue

The 2026 Finale runs for eleven days, from December 3 through December 13. South Point in Las Vegas, Nevada, hosts the action. The complex offers arenas, stalls, and an on-site hotel. As a result, ropers, horses, and fans can stay close to the competition.

Here are the quick facts:

Detail	Information
Edition	Finale XX
Dates	December 3–13, 2026
Location	South Point, Las Vegas, Nevada
Estimated payout	About $20 million, plus $600,000 in prizes
Entry	Online through Global Handicaps, or by mailed entry form
Office hours	Monday to Thursday, 7 am to 5 pm Mountain Time
Office phone	(505) 898-1755

Finale Schedule at a Glance

Every day of the Finale has at least one event. Some days feature several ropings at once. The table below shows the main highlights.

Date	Main events
December 3	Laredo Conversions Add On and Logan Industries Open to the World
December 4–6	Finale rounds sponsored by Priefert, Zesterra, Shadle Insurance, and Bloomer, plus Key Card Advantage and Super Qualifier ropings
December 7, 10 and 12	Further rounds and ropings; check the official schedule for details
December 8–9	Riata Vegas 2027 Qualifiers and Rope Horse Rewards Finals
December 11	Laredo Conversions Custom Haulers Invitational
December 13	Standlee WSTR Finale, the final day

Please note that organizers can adjust times and roping order. Therefore, always confirm your run times on the official Finale page before you travel. Additionally, check for updates each morning during the event.

How the Week Flows

The week starts with add-on and open ropings. Then the main Finale rounds take over for several days. Midweek, the focus shifts to qualifiers and rope horse events. After that, the Finale builds toward its final day on December 13. That day crowns the champions and closes the week.

Fans who want the most drama should plan to attend the last weekend. However, early days often feature more ropings and smaller crowds. Consequently, they suit families who prefer a relaxed visit.

Events, Divisions and Payouts

The Finale offers much more than one roping. Several side events run alongside the main rounds. The table lists the key ones.

Event	What to know
Finale roping	The main championship, with Consolation rounds, At-Large teams, and reruns
Add-on ropings	Extra ropings that give teams more ways to win money
Outdoor qualifiers	Qualifying ropings held outdoors at South Point
Riata Vegas Super Qualifier	A qualifier with a spot in a future event on the line
Rope Horse Rewards Finals	A showcase for rope horses and their riders
Horseman’s Park Dual Qualifiers	Qualifying ropings at the Horseman’s Park arena
Riata Showcase Horse Sale	A sale where buyers can shop for horses
Legacy Ropers program	A program for ropers with a special place at the Finale

Main Roping Format

The main Finale uses a multi-round format. Teams rope in the early rounds, and the best results move forward. However, teams that miss the top spots still have options. The Consolation gives them another chance. At-Large teams can also earn a place, and reruns handle special cases. For exact rules, read the format page on the official site.

Payouts and Prizes

Money is a major draw. Organizers estimate about $20 million in payouts. They also list $600,000 in added prizes. The page does not break the total down by event. As a result, you should check each roping’s details before you enter.

Payouts depend on your division and your finish. Therefore, a smart plan matters. Pick the ropings that match your skill, your horse, and your budget.

How to Enter

Entering is simple when you follow the steps below.

Win a qualifier, or check your eligibility for the roping you want.
Enter online through Global Handicaps, or send in the entry form.
Pay within 30 days of your win to keep your qualifier discount.
Book your stalls through the Finale forms.
Reserve your South Point hotel room through the same forms.

Book early. Stalls and rooms fill up fast during Finale week. Moreover, early planning lowers stress before the biggest roping of your year.

Health Papers for Your Horse

Nevada sets clear rules for horses that enter the state. Bring these items:

Proof of ownership
A negative Coggins test from the last 12 months
A health certificate issued within 30 days of travel

Additionally, the organizers recommend an equine influenza vaccine at least five days before you travel. Confirm all rules with your veterinarian. Rules can change, so check them before you load the trailer.

How to Watch Live

You do not need to be in Las Vegas to follow the action. The official site offers live streaming. Check the watch page for the platform and any cost, because the details can change each year. Meanwhile, fans in Las Vegas can watch in person at South Point and enjoy the full rodeo atmosphere.

Smart Tips for Competitors and Fans

Arrive early. Give your horse time to rest after the trip.
Study the schedule. Plan your runs around the daily events.
Pack for changing weather. Desert days can be warm, and nights can be cold in December.
Warm up your horse with care. Long weeks reward good horse management.
Budget for fees, stalls, lodging, and food. Costs add up quickly.
Stay hydrated. Dry desert air can drain your energy.
Keep your entry papers in one folder. Staff can then help you faster.
Visit the horse sale and trade booths. They add fun for the whole family.

Conclusion

The 2026 Finale runs from December 3 to December 13 at South Point in Las Vegas. It offers roughly $20 million in estimated payouts, plus $600,000 in prizes. The schedule mixes add-on ropings, main Finale rounds, qualifiers, rope horse events, and a horse sale. Ropers can enter online, and they should book stalls and rooms early. Horses need proper Nevada health papers. Fans can attend in person or stream online.

Therefore, the best step now is to visit the official Finale page, confirm your schedule, and lock in your plans. With good preparation, you can enjoy every minute of this big week in the sport.