In what has been hailed as a monumental occasion for the prominent Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association, an enduring partnership between the City of Lights and the thrilling spectacle of rodeo has been reaffirmed. The Wrangler National Finals Rodeo, a pinnacle event in the world of professional rodeo, is poised to gallop through the heart of Las Vegas until the year 2035. This announcement was set into the annals of rodeo history just three days shy of the prestigious 2023 NFR showcase.
The electric atmosphere of the Thomas & Mack Center, which once again will play host to the Icy Saebens barrel race—a crowd favorite—has become synonymous with the raw energy and dust-kicking drama of the National Finals Rodeo.
Amidst a palpable sense of anticipation, PRCA CEO Tom Glause captured the sentiment of his association with a statement brimming with pride and promise. He noted that this extension would not only safeguard the legacy and vitality which the association has carefully nurtured over some 38 relentless years, but also enrich the myriad stakeholders woven into the fabric of the PRCA—the valiant contestants, the diligent stock contractors, the tireless committees, the expert contract personnel, and, crucially, the passionate fan base.
The longevity of this relationship cannot be overstated, with the existing contract between Las Vegas Events and the PRCA originally earmarked to culminate in 2025. However, the financial intricacies of the renewed commitment are slated for a future reveal, promising to be an auspicious moment that will further cement this alliance.
LVE President Tim Keener effusively extolled the transformative impact that the NFR has had on Las Vegas over the years. Mentioning the impressive streak of 360 sold-out performances, Keener emphasized the integral role of the NFR in not only shaping the city’s vibrant landscape but also in acting as a beacon that draws millions to its neon glow, cultivating an unrivaled NFR experience for fans worldwide.
In a nostalgic reflection, it was acknowledged that the NFR briefly migrated to Arlington, Texas, in the year 2020—a move necessitated by the stringent COVID-19 restrictions in Nevada—but returned back to its Las Vegas heartland the following year. The triumphant return saw a staggering attendance of 173,350 over ten action-packed days of competition—a testament to the event’s unshakeable allure.
Fans are eagerly marking their calendars for this year’s installment of the NFR, which is scheduled to commence on a weighty note, from Wednesday, Dec. 7 through Saturday, Dec. 16, promising to deliver another installment of storied excellence and heart-pounding competition at the revered Thomas & Mack Center.
