While both traditions share a common ancestor in Spanish cattle-ranching practices, the American Rodeo and the Chilean Rodeo have evolved into vastly different sports with distinct objectives, rules, and cultural vibes.

​The biggest fundamental difference is that American rodeo is a test of speed and individual survival, whereas Chilean rodeo is a test of teamwork and precision driving.

​American Rodeo
Features a variety of “rough stock” and “timed” events. The most iconic are bull riding and bronc riding (staying on for 8 seconds) or barrel racing and steer wrestling (doing it as fast as possible).

Chilean Rodeo
Consists of only one main event. A team of two riders (Huasos) must pin a young steer against a padded section of the arena wall using their horses’ chests. Points are awarded based on which part of the steer is touched and how cleanly the maneuver is executed.

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