Eight-time PRCA World Champion Stetson Wright won’t return to action in 2024 

Fort Worth, Texas — The ProRodeo world will have to wait a little while longer for the return of eight-time PRCA World Champion Stetson Wright.

Wright said the recovery process on a hamstring injury suffered at the tail end of last season is still hindering him, and ultimately led him to make the difficult decision to end his 2024 campaign.

“Many of you have been wondering where I’ve been or what I’ve been doing,” Wright announced in a video posted to his social media account. “My 2024 season is officially over. There’s only really one reason. I’m just not physically ready yet.

“When I first had this injury, I said I would be back when I’m 100 percent. So, I’m going to stay true to myself because at the end of the day when you aren’t ready you can’t lie to yourself.”

The Beaver, Utah, cowboy was sidelined after Round 2 of the 2023 Wrangler National Finals Rodeo in his two events – saddle bronc riding and bull riding – due to a torn hamstring. He underwent surgery to repair the injury in mid-December.

Wright hoped to return to competition at the beginning of the summer run, but it wasn’t in the cards this season.

“Nobody wants to sit out a full season when it’s something you’ve always wanted to do growing up,” Wright said. “I’m going to attack the rest of this recovery process just like I do every time I get on a bucking horse or a bull. I’m going to push myself but also be cautious knowing it takes time. My hope is to be back by Denver to kick off the 2025 season.”