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Melbourne Storm forward Eli Katoa will miss the entire 2026 NRL season as he continues his recovery at home in his home state, following returning from a prolonged stay in New Zealand where he underwent a neurosurgical procedure.

What Happened

The 25-year-old sustained three separate head injuries in a single match while representing the Tongan national team in a Pacific Championship fixture against New Zealand. Subsequently, he experienced convulsions while off the field, requiring emergency medical attention.

A medical operation to relieve a brain bleed resulted in the player hospitalized and initially unable to travel to his club base.

The club announced this week that Katoa has finally returned home and is recovering, having also been briefly admitted to a local medical facility.

“Eli’s health and wellbeing are our number one priority,” said Storm CEO a team official. “It is great to have him home safely and under the supervision of our club doctor and local specialists.”

The Road to Recovery

Rodski added that the athlete is improving each day and is eager to continuing his rehabilitation in a home environment.

Importantly, the CEO confirmed that there is no timeframe for Katoa’s recovery or a potential return to training.

“After discussions with our doctor and neuro specialists, Katoa will not return to practice this pre-season and is ruled out for the 2026 season,” he emphasized. “There is a lengthy recovery process in his recovery, and his focus will be on achieving complete wellness before considering any form of return to rugby league activities.”

Rodski finished by noting that Eli is a much loved and respected part of the squad and organization, and that the Storm family will support him fully and assist him during his rehabilitation period.

League Investigation

The National Rugby League is wrapping up its investigation into the events that resulted in Katoa’s surgery.

The powerful forward, who was named in the competition’s team of the year at the recent Dally M awards, seemed to sustain a head injury during the pregame routine for the Pacific Championship match.

Despite this, Katoa was allowed to play in the game and endured two additional blows to the head before being substituted in the second half.

His state deteriorated quickly, and he needed medical oxygen beside the field before being taken off on a stretcher.

The league has attempted to address issues around head injuries in the game in recent seasons, implementing crackdowns on high tackles and expanding the mandatory recovery time for injured athletes.