The 2026 Governor’s Cup Field Is Set

The field is officially set for the 2026 Governor’s Cup, and some of ProRodeo’s biggest names are headed to Sioux Falls, South Dakota, for one of the most significant weekends of the season. Set for Sept. 25–27, the event will feature 12 competitors in each event competing for more than $1.5 million in total purse money. 

Here's the full lineup of competitors. Who are you cheering for?

Bareback Riding

While every bareback riding contestant sits within the Top 15, Sioux Falls gives each of them the opportunity to better their positions heading into Vegas. For bubble athletes like Garrett Shadbolt, Jayco Roper, and Clayton Biglow, success this weekend would mean___. 

Steer Wrestling

While Tyler Waguespack has already set a new steer wrestling season earnings record, Jesse Brown is also in contention to surpass him. The No. 1 and No. 2-ranked cowboys, who sit at $205,875.53 and $193,114.53, have both qualified for The Governor's Cup. 

Breakaway Roping

Breakaway roping is always a must-watch in Sioux Falls. Jill Tanner, Jackie Crawford, Martha Angelone, and Jordan Jo Hollabaugh all sit outside the Top 15, but a winning paycheck this weekend could easily move any of them into qualifying position. 

Saddle Bronc Riding

Much like breakaway, there's a significant bubble race in the saddle bronc riding. Damian Brennan, Zac Dallas, Brody Cress, and Statler Wright sit No.15–18, respectively.

Team Roping (Headers)

Cory Kidd and Luke Brown sit No. 20 and 21, respectively, so a strong performance in Sioux Falls could make or break their chance at competing in the Thomas and Mack. Dawson Graham is also looking to secure a qualification, and currently holds the final qualifying spot at No. 15.

Team Roping (Heelers)

Much like the heading side, many heelers are vying to move up the standings or hold their position in the Top 15. 

Tie-Down Roping

Cory Solomon, Dylan Hancock, and Tyler Calhoun all sit on the tie-down roping bubble with merely $7,000 separating them. Last year, one round alone paid nearly $12,000. The final NFR qualifying field can truly come down to one run.

Barrel Racing

Andrea Busby is the only barrel racer sitting outside the Top 15 – and by only $16,000. We've seen major moves happen at The Governor's Cup before, and this year could be no exception. 

Bull Riding

Colten Fritzlan, Jace Trosclair, and Dakota Hill each sit just in our just outside the Top 15, so they're definitely ones to watch this weekend.

Steer Roping

Taylor Santos is looking to secure his first Steer Roping World Championship, and currently holds the No. 1 spot in the world standings with $103,371.89. 

It's time for the final opportunity for competitors to add to their regular-season earnings before the Sept. 30 deadline and secure an NFR, NFBR, or NFSR qualification!