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The Storm forward Eli Katoa has been officially ruled out the complete 2026 rugby league season as he focuses on rehabilitation at home in his home state, after coming back from a extended period in Auckland after undergoing brain surgery.

What Happened

The 25-year-old suffered three head impacts during a single match while representing the Tongan national team in a international fixture against New Zealand. This led to seizures while off the field, necessitating emergency medical attention.

A surgical procedure to address bleeding on the brain resulted in Katoa in the hospital and initially unable to travel to his club base.

The team revealed this week that the forward has finally returned home and is on the mend, having also made a brief visit to a Melbourne hospital.

“Eli’s health and wellbeing remain our top concern,” said Storm CEO Justin Rodski. “We are thrilled to have him home safely and under the supervision of our medical staff and local specialists.”

Recovery and Rehabilitation

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

However, the executive stated 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 practice this pre-season and is ruled out for the 2026 season,” Rodski declared. “He has a long road ahead in his recovery, and his primary goal will be on achieving complete wellness prior to contemplating any form of return to rugby league activities.”

Rodski concluded by saying that Katoa is a much loved and respected part of the squad and organization, and that the Storm family will rally around him and assist him during his rehabilitation period.

Broader Context

The NRL is wrapping up its inquiry into the circumstances that resulted in the required neurosurgery.

The powerful forward, 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 cleared to participate in the match and suffered two additional blows to the head before coming off in the later stages.

Katoa’s condition deteriorated quickly, and he needed medical oxygen on the sideline before being removed from the field on a stretcher.

The NRL has sought to tackle issues around concussions in the sport in recent seasons, introducing crackdowns on dangerous contact and expanding the mandatory recovery time for affected players.