In the new format of The American Rodeo, contestants compete in qualifiers across the country to earn a seat in one of three regional semi-finals. From each of the East, Central , and West Regional Semi-Finals, five barrel racers advanced to The American Rodeo Semi-Finals.

That field of fifteen will narrow to five for the Showdown Round held in Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas. Five ”contenders” will go head-to-head with the top five cowgirls from the 2025 WPRA Barrel Racing World Standings.

Each event will pay $100,000 to the winner. The contenders (athletes who did not earn an automatic qualification through the World Standings) have a shot at an additional $2 million in prize money in 2026.

Many of the best teams in the country sought a spot on the roster, and the field is now set. There are several unique facts about the field of barrel racers this year.…