Review at the NFR

LAS VEGAS

Statement from the PRCA

Beginning in 2024, the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association implemented review for the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo for judging calls in the arena.

“As access to technology increased, it was vital that we adapted to provide a fair opportunity for competition,” PRCA Director of Rodeo Administration Steve Knowles said, “including embracing video review when possible.”

The initial implementation included six specific calls: competing before breaking the plane of the barrier, crossfire, livestock infraction, spur out, barrier malfunction, and no-nod in all events.

After a successful first year in practice, the review system expanded in 2025 to provide for two additional areas of review: buck off times and freehand infraction. Through six rounds of competition during the 2025 NFR, 34 infractions by PRCA judges have been subject to automatic review by officials. Three calls have been overturned in a timely manner, subsequently announced in the arena. The other 31 infractions from PRCA judges have been reviewed and upheld.

“With twelve independent cameras and two dedicated video officials, the review process is important to our rodeo and the fairness of competition. When a judge makes a call in the arena, we work diligently to confirm or overturn the call in a timely manner,” said PRCA Director of Pro Officials Ron Howard.

The 2025 Wrangler National Finals Rodeo continues this evening at 5:45 p.m. (PT) with the seventh performance.