San Antonio, December 3, 2025
In response to an EHV-1 outbreak, the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo has revised qualification rules for the 2026 event. The recent virus outbreak caused the cancellation of the Uvalde Rodeo Qualifier. To ensure safety, the top contestants from completed events will qualify while current-year money earners from uncompleted events will fill the spots. The changes are made in collaboration with the PRCA and WPRA to maintain fairness and the well-being of participants.
San Antonio Rodeo Implements New Qualifier Rules Amid EHV-1 Outbreak
San Antonio, Texas – In response to the recent Equine Herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) outbreak, the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo has announced changes to its qualification process for the 2026 event. The outbreak led to the cancellation of the Uvalde Rodeo Qualifier, originally scheduled for November 19–22, 2025, due to concerns over animal safety.
Impact of the EHV-1 Outbreak
The EHV-1 outbreak has significantly affected the equine community, with over 40 confirmed cases across Texas and neighboring states. The virus, which can cause severe respiratory illness and neurological symptoms in horses, was first detected at a rodeo event in Waco, Texas, in early November.
Revised Qualification Criteria
Due to the cancellation of the Uvalde qualifier, the San Antonio Rodeo has updated its qualification rules for the 2026 competition:
- Completed Events: The top 10 contestants in each of the four events that were completed in Uvalde—Bull Riding, Bareback Riding, Saddle Bronc Riding, and Team Roping—will qualify for the San Antonio Rodeo.
- Uncompleted Events: For the events that were not completed in Uvalde—Tie Down Roping, Steer Wrestling, Breakaway Roping, and Barrel Racing—the top 10 current-year money earners will qualify. This reverts to the previous qualification rule prior to the hosting of the Uvalde Qualifier.
These decisions were made in conjunction with the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) and the Women’s Pro Rodeo Association (WPRA) to ensure the safety and fairness of the competition.
Background on EHV-1
EHV-1 is a highly contagious virus that primarily affects horses, leading to respiratory issues and, in severe cases, neurological complications. The virus spreads through direct contact, contaminated equipment, and airborne particles. While it does not pose a risk to humans, it can be fatal to horses. Symptoms include fever, nasal discharge, and incoordination.
In light of the outbreak, the Texas Animal Health Commission has recommended heightened biosecurity measures and monitoring of horses that may have been exposed to the virus.
Looking Ahead
Despite the challenges posed by the EHV-1 outbreak, the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo remains committed to hosting a safe and successful event in February 2026. Organizers are closely monitoring the situation and will provide updates as necessary to ensure the well-being of all participants and animals involved.
FAQ
What is EHV-1?
EHV-1 is a highly contagious virus that primarily affects horses, leading to respiratory issues and, in severe cases, neurological complications. The virus spreads through direct contact, contaminated equipment, and airborne particles. While it does not pose a risk to humans, it can be fatal to horses. Symptoms include fever, nasal discharge, and incoordination.
Why was the Uvalde Rodeo Qualifier canceled?
The Uvalde Rodeo Qualifier was canceled due to the EHV-1 outbreak, which raised concerns about the safety and well-being of the participating horses. The Texas Animal Health Commission recommended the cancellation to prevent further spread of the virus.
How will the cancellation affect the San Antonio Rodeo in February?
To address the cancellation, the San Antonio Rodeo has updated its qualification rules for the 2026 event. The top 10 contestants in the completed events from Uvalde will qualify, while the top 10 current-year money earners in the uncompleted events will qualify. These decisions were made in conjunction with the PRCA and WPRA to ensure fairness and safety.
What measures are being taken to prevent the spread of EHV-1?
The Texas Animal Health Commission has recommended heightened biosecurity measures, including isolating horses that may have been exposed to the virus and monitoring their health closely. Horse owners and event organizers are urged to implement these measures to prevent further spread of EHV-1.
Is EHV-1 a risk to humans?
No, EHV-1 does not pose a risk to humans. It is specific to horses and does not affect human health. However, it can be fatal to horses, making it important to monitor and manage the health of equine participants.
Key Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Event Cancellation | The Uvalde Rodeo Qualifier, scheduled for November 19–22, 2025, was canceled due to the EHV-1 outbreak. |
| Revised Qualification Rules | Top 10 contestants in completed events from Uvalde qualify; top 10 current-year money earners in uncompleted events qualify. |
| EHV-1 Outbreak | Over 40 confirmed cases across Texas and neighboring states; virus causes respiratory and neurological issues in horses. |
| Preventive Measures | Texas Animal Health Commission recommends heightened biosecurity measures and monitoring of exposed horses. |
| Human Health Risk | EHV-1 does not pose a risk to humans; it is specific to horses. |
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