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The Storm backrower Eli Katoa has been officially ruled out the complete 2026 rugby league season as he continues his recovery at home in his home state, after returning from a prolonged stay in New Zealand where he underwent a neurosurgical procedure.

What Happened

The 25-year-old sustained three head impacts during a single match while representing the Tongan national team in a Pacific Championship fixture against the Kiwis. This led to convulsions while on the sideline, necessitating emergency medical attention.

A medical operation to relieve bleeding on the brain left the player hospitalized and temporarily grounded back to Melbourne.

The team announced recently that Katoa has finally returned home and is on the mend, having also made a brief visit to a Melbourne hospital.

“Eli’s health and wellbeing are our number one priority,” stated Storm CEO Justin Rodski. “We are thrilled to have him back home and under the supervision of our medical staff and specialist physicians.”

The Road to Recovery

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

Importantly, the CEO confirmed that there is no set timeline for Katoa’s recovery or a comeback to the field.

“After discussions with our doctor and neurology experts, Eli won't be back to training this pre-season and is ruled out for the 2026 season,” he emphasized. “There is a long road ahead ahead of him, and his primary goal will be on achieving complete wellness before considering a potential comeback to training.”

Rodski finished by saying that Eli is a much loved and respected part of the squad and organization, and that the Storm family will rally around him and support him through his rehabilitation period.

League Investigation

The NRL is currently finalizing its investigation into the circumstances that led to Katoa’s surgery.

The talented player, who was named in the competition’s team of the year at the recent Dally M awards, appeared to suffer a concussion during the pregame routine for the international contest.

Despite this, Katoa was allowed to play in the game and suffered two more head impacts before being substituted in the later stages.

His state worsened rapidly, and he required oxygen on the sideline before being taken off on a stretcher.

The NRL has attempted to address concerns around concussions in the sport in recent seasons, implementing crackdowns on dangerous contact and expanding the mandatory recovery time for affected players.