LAS VEGAS — Utah has a new national titleholder. Olivia Favero, the reigning Miss Rodeo Utah 2025, has officially been crowned Miss Rodeo America 2026, earning one of the most prestigious honors in the rodeo and western-heritage world.
Favero received the national title on Dec. 6 during the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo at the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas. The announcement caps a remarkable year for the Ogden native, who stepped into her Miss Rodeo Utah role in January 2025 after being crowned at the state competition on July 24, 2024.
A Farewell to Utah’s Crown and a Step Into the National Spotlight
In a heartfelt Instagram post on Nov. 22, Favero reflected on her final appearance as Miss Rodeo Utah, writing, “This ain’t my first rodeo… but it was my last as Miss Rodeo Utah! I love this dream I get to live.” The post came shortly before she took the NFR stage, marking the end of her state reign and the beginning of national competition.
Her success comes after months of preparation, public appearances and representing Utah’s strong rodeo culture. According to Miss Rodeo America officials, the pageant evaluates contestants on horsemanship, personality, public speaking and advocacy for the western industry. More details about the national competition can be found at the Miss Rodeo America Organization.
Gratitude for Utah and Excitement for What Comes Next
Speaking with ABC4, Favero expressed deep appreciation for the support she received:
“I’d like to express my gratitude for the support I’ve received from many people back home in Utah. I am honored that I got the opportunity to represent our great state for one year and compete on the national level. The Miss Rodeo America pageant challenged me, but it was one of the best experiences of my life.”
Favero said she is ready to embrace her new national role, which includes extensive travel, public engagements, and representing the western lifestyle across the United States.
“I am eager to continue representing rodeo and the western industry, and I will always be proud to represent Utah,” she added. “Thank you for believing in me, cheering for me, and being on my team.”
Her win places Utah back in the national spotlight just as excitement builds around the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo and the broader rodeo circuit. For additional context on the NFR and its cultural impact, visit the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association.
As Favero begins her upcoming year of appearances, she leaves fans and future rodeo queens with one final message: “Always remember to enjoy the ride.”
