WSTR 2026 is almost here, and the excitement is building fast. The Ariat World Series of Team Roping Finale XX runs December 3–13, 2026, at South Point in Las Vegas. Ropers from across the country will chase big checks, custom buckles, and bragging rights. Fans will enjoy eleven straight days of fast action. This guide covers the dates, venue, daily schedule, prize money, entry basics, and travel tips. Use it to plan your trip with confidence.
Quick Facts at a Glance
First, here is a short summary of the key details. Check this table before you dive into the rest of the guide.
| Detail | Information |
| Event name | Ariat World Series of Team Roping Finale XX (the 20th Finale) |
| Dates | Thursday, December 3 to Sunday, December 13, 2026 |
| Location | South Point Hotel, Casino and Equestrian Center, Las Vegas, Nevada |
| Estimated payouts | About $20 million, plus $600,000 in extra prizes |
| Roping days | Every day, including add-on ropings |
| Entry method | Online through Global Handicaps, or by mailed entry form |
| Office phone | (505) 898-1755, Monday to Thursday, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mountain Time |
WSTR 2026 Dates and Location
Eleven Days of Roping in Las Vegas
The Finale starts on Thursday, December 3, and ends on Sunday, December 13. Roping happens every single day. Add-on ropings fill the early days, and the main Finale rounds follow right behind them. As a result, the arenas stay busy from early morning until late at night.
The organizers call the Finale the richest quarter horse event in the world. That claim comes from the huge payout pool. Therefore, the event draws thousands of ropers, horses, and fans each year.
Why South Point Works So Well
South Point sits just south of the Las Vegas Strip. It combines a hotel, a casino, and a large equestrian center in one place. Ropers can park a trailer, stall a horse, sleep in a room, and walk to the arena. That convenience matters a lot during an eleven-day event.
Arenas Used During the Finale
The Finale spreads across several roping areas. This setup lets many teams compete at the same time. The schedule lists these arenas:
- Main Arena: the biggest arena, with the top ropings and the horse sale
- Priefert Arena: a second indoor arena for large rotations
- Farnam Arena: a third indoor arena that opens on busy days
- Outdoor Arena: home to the Super Qualifiers and Qualifiers
- Horseman’s Park Arena 2: host of the Legends team roping on December 10
Daily Roping Schedule
Day-by-Day Overview
The table below shows the main Finale roping for each day. The number before each name shows the handicap level. For example, the number 15.5 means the combined skill rating of both ropers. Lower numbers mean ropers with less experience. Each day also includes qualifiers in the outdoor arena.
| Date | Main Finale Roping | Other Highlights |
| Thu, Dec 3 | Open to the World Finale | Laredo Conversions Add-On, 350-team limit |
| Fri, Dec 4 | #15.5 Finale | Key Card Advantage Qualifier; Open Super Qualifier |
| Sat, Dec 5 | #14.5 Finale | #13.5 Key Card Qualifier; three Super Qualifiers |
| Sun, Dec 6 | #13.5 Finale | #12.5 Key Card Qualifier; Super Qualifier |
| Mon, Dec 7 | #12.5 Finale | #11.5 Key Card Qualifier; Super Qualifier |
| Tue, Dec 8 | #11.5 Finale | Riata Vegas 2027 Super Qualifiers; horse sale preview |
| Wed, Dec 9 | Rope Horse Rewards Finals | Riata Showcase Horse Sale at 5 p.m. |
| Thu, Dec 10 | #10.5 Finale | Legends team roping at Horseman’s Park |
| Fri, Dec 11 | #9.5 Finale | Custom Haulers Invitational, $500,000 |
| Sat, Dec 12 | #8.5 Finale | #8.5 Key Card Qualifier; outdoor Qualifiers |
| Sun, Dec 13 | #7.5 Finale | Final outdoor Qualifier |
Schedule Notes to Remember
Start times change from day to day. Most outdoor Super Qualifiers begin at 9 a.m. However, some events start later, so always check the official page. In addition, the schedule lists a horse sale preview on December 8, while another flyer says the sale runs December 8–9. Therefore, call the office before you travel and confirm the latest times.
Key Events to Watch
The Main Finale Ropings
The Finale rounds are the heart of the week. Each one features a different handicap level, so teams of every skill level get a shot at the top prize. Sponsors such as Priefert, Zesterra, Resistol, YETI, and Standlee put their names on the ropings. Winners walk away with large checks and prized awards.
Super Qualifiers and Key Card Advantage Ropings
Super Qualifiers cost $500 per roper in most cases. They give teams a way to earn a spot in future Finale events. Key Card Advantage Qualifiers cost $800 with a Key Card or $1,000 without one. Many of these ropings cap at 350 teams. Consequently, entries fill up quickly.
Rope Horse Rewards Finals
On Wednesday, December 9, the Main Arena hosts the Rope Horse Rewards Finals. The winning team in each final earns a guaranteed $150,000. Riata Buckle horses enrolled in the program can add a $25,000 bonus. Afterward, six winners spin a roulette wheel for a custom truck at the sale kickoff.
Custom Haulers Invitational
The Invitational takes place on Friday, December 11, in the Main Arena. Fifty invited teams compete for $500,000 in cash and prizes. Because the event is invitation only, fans should expect the sharpest roping of the week.
Riata Showcase Horse Sale
Horse buyers will want to circle December 9. The Riata Showcase Horse Sale starts at 5 p.m., with doors opening at 4 p.m. Moreover, a preview on December 8 lets buyers study the horses before bidding begins.
Legends Team Roping
Older ropers get their own spotlight on December 10. The Legends events run at Horseman’s Park Arena 2 and welcome men over 40 and women over 30. Entry is onsite, and the fee is $200 per roper.
Why Ropers and Fans Love This Event
The Finale stands out because it welcomes everyone. A new roper with a low handicap can win a life-changing check. Meanwhile, a seasoned pro can add another buckle to the collection. This balance keeps the field deep and the competition fair.
Fans enjoy the energy as well. Crowds cheer each fast run, and the sound of ropes and hooves fills the arenas. Families often make the trip together, and many stay the whole week. Furthermore, the horse sale and trade show give visitors even more reasons to come. Few events in the sport match this mix of money, skill, and community.
Prize Money and Payouts
The numbers behind this event are huge. Organizers estimate about $20 million in payouts, plus another $600,000 in extra prizes. These funds come from entry fees and sponsor support. Sponsors also add trailers, trucks, saddles, and other gifts.
| Event | Prize Details |
| Total Finale payouts | About $20 million (estimated) |
| Extra prizes | $600,000 |
| Rope Horse Rewards Finals | $150,000 guaranteed to each winning team |
| Riata horse bonus | $25,000 for eligible first-place horses |
| Custom Haulers Invitational | $500,000 in cash and prizes |
| Rope Horse Rewards truck drawing | Custom Laredo F350 conversion truck |
Keep in mind that the payout figure is an estimate. The final total depends on entries, so it can shift by event day.
How Entry and Qualifying Work
Entering a Roping
Ropers can enter online through Global Handicaps. Alternatively, they can send in a paper entry form. Stall and hotel forms live on the Finale Forms page. Teams that qualify earlier in the year must pay within 30 days of the win to keep their discount.
Qualifier Levels
The sport uses several entry paths. Each path suits a different goal:
- WSTR Qualifier: the lowest cost option, at $250 per roper
- WSTR Super Qualifier: a $500 entry with a stronger payout
- Key Card Advantage: a discount path for card holders
- Direct entry: a path that skips earlier qualifying
- Add-on ropings: extra runs with a separate fee, such as the $400 Laredo Add-On
Understanding Handicaps and Caps
Team roping uses a rating system. Each header and heeler carries a number, and the two numbers add up to the team rating. Some events also set a heeler cap or a cap for both ends. Check these limits before you enter. Otherwise, you could pay for a roping that your team cannot join.
Horse Health Rules for Nevada
Every horse that enters South Point needs proper paperwork. Nevada requires proof of ownership, a negative Coggins test from the past 12 months, and a health certificate from the past 30 days. Gather these papers well before you leave home. In addition, keep copies in your truck, because gate staff may ask for them.
How to Watch the Finale Online
Not everyone can travel to Las Vegas. Fortunately, the organizers offer a livestream through the Watch Live page on their website. Fans can follow their favorite teams from home. However, the site does not list the price or platform details in advance, so check the page closer to the start date.
Fans who attend in person can also explore the trade show at South Point. It features many sponsors, including rope makers, saddle makers, and trailer companies. As a result, the week offers plenty to see outside the arena.
Travel and Planning Tips
- Book your hotel room early, since the Finale fills South Point fast.
- Reserve stalls and parking through the official forms page.
- Arrive a day ahead so your horse can settle in.
- Pack warm layers, because December mornings in Las Vegas can feel cold.
- Confirm your roping times on the day before you compete.
- Bring cash and cards for vendors in the trade show.
Additionally, plan your roping days around your travel dates. A team that draws a late time slot may need an extra night in town. Therefore, build a little flexibility into your plan.
Spectators should plan ahead too. The official page does not list ticket or admission details, so call the office before you go. Likewise, arrive early on big days such as the horse sale and the Invitational. Parking and seats can fill quickly when top teams rope. Finally, keep a copy of the schedule on your phone, because last-minute changes can happen.
Conclusion
WSTR 2026 promises eleven days of top roping, huge payouts, and a lively trade show in Las Vegas. The Finale runs December 3–13 at South Point. Highlights include the Rope Horse Rewards Finals, the $500,000 Invitational, and the Riata Showcase Horse Sale. Ropers should enter early, gather their horse paperwork, and confirm their times. Fans can attend in person or watch online. Either way, this event offers a week of excitement for anyone who loves team roping.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the Finale take place?
The Finale runs from Thursday, December 3, through Sunday, December 13, 2026.
Where does the event happen?
It happens at South Point Hotel, Casino and Equestrian Center in Las Vegas, Nevada.
How much prize money does the Finale pay?
Organizers estimate about $20 million in payouts, plus an extra $600,000 in prizes.
How do I enter a roping?
You can enter online through Global Handicaps or send in a mailed entry form.
How much does a Super Qualifier cost?
Most Super Qualifiers cost $500 per roper. Qualifiers cost $250, and Key Card Advantage ropings cost $800 or $1,000.
What does the number in an event name mean?
It shows the combined handicap of the two ropers on a team. For example, a #12.5 event suits teams that add up to 12.5 or less.
What health papers does my horse need?
Nevada requires proof of ownership, a negative Coggins test within 12 months, and a health certificate within 30 days.
Can I watch the Finale online?
Yes. The organizers offer a livestream on the Watch Live page of their website.
What is the Rope Horse Rewards Finals?
It is a special roping on December 9. Each winning team earns a guaranteed $150,000.
Who can I call with questions?
Call the office at (505) 898-1755, Monday through Thursday, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mountain Time.
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