American Royal cancels World Series of Barbecue, other events

Originally scheduled for September at Kansas Speedway, the American Royal, host to the world’s largest barbecue competition, announced Tuesday the decision to cancel this year’s series along with other events held at the annual competition.

On Tuesday, the American Royal announced its decision to cancel this year’s World Series of Barbecue over COVID-19 concerns.

Set for September 17-20 at Kansas Speedway, the association announced it is also canceling its Quarter Horse Show and PRCA ProRodeo.

“Not being able to host the world’s largest barbecue competition that does so many good things for Kansas City and the community as well as our organizations — it’s a challenge and it’s a disappointment,” Glen Alan Phillips, president and CEO of the American Royal Association, said.

Annually, the American Royal contributes $1 million toward scholarships and outreach initiatives, funding which will be hurt this year due to the cancellation of events.

“The health and safety of our participants, guests, volunteers and employees has always been our top priority,” Phillips said. “This was not the outcome any of us hoped for, but I am confident it is the right decision for the long-term continued success of the event in support of our charitable mission.”

Teams registered for the 2020 competition will be given a full refund and have the same space available at next year’s 2020 event, tentatively scheduled for September 16-19.