Source: Exclusive interview granted to Portal Rodeio S.A. by journalist Abner Henrique Therezio (@abnerhenriquetherezio)

Three-time World Champion José Vitor Leme is officially no longer under contract with the Austin Gamblers. His agreement with the Texas franchise came to an end last week after four consecutive seasons in the PBR Team Series. The news was confirmed through an exclusive interview with Portal Rodeio S.A.

Even with the contract expiring, Leme made it clear that his departure from the team is not yet definitive. He emphasized that he intends to meet with the Gamblers’ management before making any decisions.

Renewal still on the table

According to the rider, his long-standing relationship with the organization plays an important role in his next steps.

“I have a history of great affection and respect for the Gamblers. We built a lot together in these first four years of the PBR Teams. I won’t make any decisions right now; I want to analyze everything calmly and talk with the Gamblers’ management so we can decide together,” Leme told Portal Rodeio S.A.

Leme, who is experiencing a special moment in his personal life—he and his wife Amanda are expecting their second child—also revealed that he is considering focusing exclusively on the PBR Unleash The Beast, the individual circuit of Professional Bull Riders.

Focusing on the individual season is a real possibility

During the interview, the reigning World Champion mentioned that he still has important goals to chase in the individual division.

“There are some titles and records I want to achieve in the Unleash The Beast, and dedicating myself only to the individual season would be a way to get closer to those goals. I’m not saying I won’t compete in the PBR Team Series anymore, but it’s a possibility I’m considering,” he explained.

Demanding schedule influences the decision

Leme also pointed out that juggling the individual schedule with the team format has become physically and mentally exhausting.

“By focusing only on the individual tour, I would have the other six months of the year to stay home more, enjoy my family, treat injuries, and even return to some open rodeos that I’ve been wanting to compete in. It’s not an easy decision, because I know fans expect to see me in the team competition, so I will carefully analyze all possibilities before making a final decision.”

First overall pick in PBR Teams history

Leme’s journey with the Austin Gamblers is a significant chapter in the history of the PBR Team Series. In 2022, the Brazilian rider from Mato Grosso do Sul became the first overall pick in the inaugural Draft, signing the highest-valued contract in the league’s history.

Now 29 and at the peak of his career, Leme is expected to decide his future in the coming weeks—whether by renewing with the Gamblers, joining another roster, or dedicating himself solely to the individual tour.