If you follow the rodeo or cutting horse world, you’ve probably heard the name Adan Banuelos more than a few times. But lately, he’s been making headlines for more than just his incredible skills in the arena. With an estimated net worth of $6 million in 2024 and a relationship with supermodel Bella Hadid, Banuelos is quickly becoming a household name outside of the equestrian community.
Let’s saddle up and take a closer look at the life, career, and financial success of this cutting horse champion.
Early Life and Family Background
Adan Banuelos didn’t just stumble into the world of cutting horses. He was born into it. Raised in a large Mexican-American family with deep ties to the equestrian world, Banuelos grew up watching his father, Ascension Banuelos, dominate the cutting horse scene. His dad, a National Cutting Horse Association (NCHA) Hall of Fame inductee, set the bar high, and Adan was eager to follow in his footsteps.
Born in 1989, Adan spent his formative years in Texas, surrounded by horses and the culture of rodeo life. From an early age, he learned the ropes—literally and figuratively—by spending countless hours at his father’s ranch. This upbringing wasn’t just about learning to ride; it was about understanding horses on a deeper level.
The Road to Becoming a Champion
Fast forward a few years, and Adan Banuelos has carved out his own legendary path. His rise to fame wasn’t instantaneous, but his hard work and talent quickly began to pay off. By the time he reached his late twenties, Adan had already made a name for himself as one of the most talented young riders in the cutting horse industry.
His career highlights are nothing short of impressive:
- Inducted into the NCHA Riders Hall of Fame in 2017 (at just 28 years old).
- NCHA leading open rider multiple times (2018, 2020, 2021, 2022).
- Winner of the 2020 NCHA Open Futurity Championship.
- Over $6 million in career earnings.
That’s not just talent—that’s next-level dedication and skill.
Breaking Down Adan Banuelos’ Net Worth
So, how did Adan Banuelos accumulate a net worth estimated at $6 million by 2024? It’s not all from prize money (though there’s plenty of that). Banuelos has diversified his income streams and built a thriving business empire centered around his passion for horses.
1. Competition Winnings
Adan’s success in high-stakes competitions has contributed significantly to his wealth. Winning cutting horse events can mean six-figure payouts, and with Adan consistently at the top, he’s seen his fair share of those earnings.
2. Training and Horse Sales
Banuelos isn’t just a competitor; he’s also a trainer and horse breeder. Through Banuelos Performance Horses, he trains some of the best cutting horses in the industry, often selling them for hefty sums. A well-trained cutting horse can sell for hundreds of thousands of dollars, and Adan’s reputation guarantees top dollar.
3. Breeding Programs
In addition to training, Adan runs breeding programs that produce elite-level cutting horses. His breeding lines are in high demand, further boosting his earnings.
4. Sponsorships and Endorsements
As one of the top names in his field, Adan has attracted sponsorships and endorsements from brands within the equestrian industry. These partnerships add a lucrative layer to his income.
Adan Banuelos and Bella Hadid: A Power Couple?
Adan’s relationship with Bella Hadid has definitely turned heads. The couple was first linked in late 2023, and since then, they’ve been spotted at various public events. Bella, known for her high-fashion career, seems to have embraced the Western lifestyle, often seen alongside Adan in cowboy hats and boots.
Their relationship has brought Adan into the spotlight beyond the equestrian community. The pair was recently seen at Kemo Sabe, a luxury Western wear retailer in New York City, flaunting coordinated cowboy-chic outfits. The photos of their outing have made waves, showcasing how Adan’s world and Bella’s collide in a unique and stylish way.
While the relationship is still relatively new, it’s safe to say the media attention it generates could open new doors for Adan’s career—whether that means more sponsorships, collaborations, or simply a larger public profile.
Training Philosophy and the Business of Horses
At the heart of Adan Banuelos’ success is his training philosophy. He believes in building a deep connection between horse and rider, emphasizing patience, trust, and understanding horse psychology.
Through his training facility, Banuelos Performance Horses, he works with riders of all skill levels, helping them achieve their goals in cutting horse competitions. His clientele includes amateur riders looking to improve and seasoned professionals aiming for championship titles.
Challenges and Controversies
No career, even one as successful as Adan’s, is without its challenges. The cutting horse industry faces ongoing debates about animal welfare and training practices. As one of the sport’s biggest names, Banuelos has had to carefully navigate these issues, ensuring his methods align with ethical standards while still delivering results.
Additionally, with increased public attention comes scrutiny. Adan’s relationship with Bella Hadid has led to a higher level of visibility, which means any misstep could end up under the media microscope.
What’s Next for Adan Banuelos?
At just 35 years old, Adan Banuelos shows no signs of slowing down. With years left in his competitive career, his net worth is likely to grow. Future plans could include:
- Expanding his breeding and training operations.
- Exploring brand collaborations that blend the worlds of equestrian sports and fashion.
- Competing in more high-stakes events to further cement his legacy.
Final Thoughts
Adan Banuelos’ journey from a young rider learning from his father to a multi-millionaire cutting horse champion is nothing short of inspiring. His $6 million net worth reflects not just his success in the arena but also his business acumen and ability to adapt to new opportunities.
Whether you know him from the rodeo, his training programs, or his relationship with Bella Hadid, one thing is certain—Adan Banuelos is a force to be reckoned with in the equestrian world. And with plenty of future ahead, the best may be yet to come.
