San Antonio, Texas, December 3, 2025
Following the cancellation of the Uvalde Rodeo Qualifier due to an outbreak of Equine Herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1), the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo has revised its qualification rules for the 2026 competition. In collaboration with WPRA and PRCA, the new rules aim to ensure safety and fairness for all equine participants. The top contestants from completed events will qualify, while for others, the previous money earners rule will apply. Health officials continue to monitor the situation, and appropriate measures are encouraged for horse owners.
San Antonio Rodeo Implements New Qualifier Rules Following EHV-1 Outbreak
San Antonio, Texas – The San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo has announced updated qualification procedures for the 2026 competition after the cancellation of the Uvalde Rodeo Qualifier due to an Equine Herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) outbreak.
Cancellation of Uvalde Qualifier
Originally scheduled for November 19–22, 2025, the Uvalde Rodeo Qualifier was canceled following guidance from the Texas Animal Health Commission due to the EHV-1 outbreak. This decision was made in collaboration with the Women’s Professional Rodeo Association (WPRA) and the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) to ensure the safety of equine participants.
Updated Qualification Rules
In response to the cancellation, the San Antonio Rodeo has revised its qualification rules for the 2026 event:
- Completed Events in Uvalde: The top 10 contestants in each of the following events will qualify for the San Antonio Rodeo:
- Bull Riding
- Bareback Riding
- Saddle Bronc Riding
- Team Roping
- Uncompleted Events: For the following events, qualification will revert to the previous rule, where the top 10 current-year money earners will qualify:
- Tie Down Roping
- Steer Wrestling
- Breakaway Roping
- Barrel Racing
This decision was made in conjunction with the PRCA and WPRA to maintain fairness and integrity in the qualification process.
Background on EHV-1 Outbreak
EHV-1 is a highly contagious equine virus that can cause respiratory illness, neurological disease, and, in severe cases, abortion in pregnant mares. The outbreak was first reported in the Waco area during the World Championship Barrel Racing event held from November 5–9, 2025. Horses that attended this event began exhibiting symptoms of the virus shortly after. The Texas Animal Health Commission recommended that horses that may have come in contact with infected animals be isolated and monitored to prevent further spread.
Impact on San Antonio Rodeo
The cancellation of the Uvalde Rodeo Qualifier has affected the contestant field for the San Antonio Rodeo scheduled for February 2026. Organizers are currently assessing the impact and will provide updates as more information becomes available. In the meantime, they are working closely with health officials to monitor the situation and implement necessary biosecurity measures to protect all participants.
Preventive Measures
Horse owners and participants are advised to monitor their animals closely for any signs of illness, implement heightened biosecurity measures, and isolate horses that may have been exposed to infected animals. Disinfecting equipment and facilities is also recommended to prevent the spread of EHV-1. While humans are not at risk, they can inadvertently transmit the virus between horses through clothing and equipment, so maintaining strict hygiene practices is essential.
Looking Ahead
The San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo remains committed to providing a safe and fair competition for all participants. The organization continues to collaborate with health officials and industry partners to navigate the challenges posed by the EHV-1 outbreak and to ensure the continued success of the event in 2026 and beyond.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What caused the cancellation of the Uvalde Rodeo Qualifier?
The Uvalde Rodeo Qualifier was canceled due to an outbreak of Equine Herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) in the region, following guidance from the Texas Animal Health Commission to ensure the safety of equine participants.
How will the cancellation affect the San Antonio Rodeo contestant field?
The cancellation has led to changes in the qualification process for the 2026 San Antonio Rodeo. For events completed in Uvalde, the top 10 contestants will qualify. For events not completed, qualification will revert to the previous rule, where the top 10 current-year money earners will qualify.
What is Equine Herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1)?
EHV-1 is a highly contagious equine virus that can cause respiratory illness, neurological disease, and, in severe cases, abortion in pregnant mares. It spreads through horse-to-horse contact, contaminated equipment, and human handling.
What preventive measures should horse owners take during the outbreak?
Horse owners should monitor their animals closely for signs of illness, implement heightened biosecurity measures, isolate horses that may have been exposed to infected animals, and disinfect equipment and facilities to prevent the spread of EHV-1.
Is EHV-1 transmissible to humans?
No, EHV-1 is not transmissible to humans. However, humans can inadvertently transmit the virus between horses through clothing and equipment, so maintaining strict hygiene practices is essential.
Key Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Event Canceled | The Uvalde Rodeo Qualifier, scheduled for November 19–22, 2025, was canceled due to an EHV-1 outbreak. |
| Impact on San Antonio Rodeo | The cancellation has affected the contestant field for the San Antonio Rodeo in February 2026; organizers are assessing the impact. |
| EHV-1 Outbreak Details | The outbreak was linked to the World Championship Barrel Racing event in Waco from November 5–9, 2025. |
| Preventive Measures | Horse owners are advised to monitor their animals, implement biosecurity measures, and isolate exposed horses to prevent further spread. |
| Background on EHV-1 | EHV-1 is a virus affecting horses, causing respiratory illness, neurological issues, and reproductive problems; it is not transmissible to humans. |
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