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The Storm backrower Eli Katoa will miss the complete 2026 rugby league season as he focuses on rehabilitation at home in his home state, following returning from a prolonged stay in Auckland where he underwent a neurosurgical procedure.

What Happened

The 25-year-old athlete suffered three head impacts during a single afternoon while representing the Tongan national team in a international fixture against the Kiwis. Subsequently, he experienced seizures while on the sideline, requiring urgent medical care.

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

The club announced recently that the forward has now come back and is recovering, having also made a brief visit to a local medical facility.

“His health and recovery are our number one priority,” said Storm CEO a team official. “We are thrilled to have him home safely and under the supervision of our medical staff and local specialists.”

The Road to Recovery

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

However, the executive stated that there is no timeframe for Katoa’s recovery or a potential return to training.

“After discussions with our medical team and neuro specialists, Eli will not return to practice this pre-season and won’t be available for the upcoming season,” Rodski declared. “There is a lengthy recovery process in his recovery, and his focus will be on returning to full health before considering any form of return to rugby league activities.”

Rodski finished by noting that Katoa is a highly valued and respected member of our team and club, and that the entire club will rally around him and assist him during his rehabilitation period.

Broader Context

The National Rugby League is wrapping up its investigation into the events that led to the required neurosurgery.

The talented player, who was selected for the league's best lineup at the annual awards ceremony, appeared to suffer a concussion during the warm-up for the Pacific Championship match.

However, Katoa was cleared to participate in the match and endured two additional blows to the head before coming off in the second half.

Katoa’s condition worsened rapidly, and he required oxygen on the sideline before being taken off on a stretcher.

The NRL has attempted to address concerns around head injuries in the sport in recent years, implementing stricter enforcement on dangerous contact and expanding the post-concussion stand down period for injured athletes.