NRL hands down two-year bans to Tonga officials over Eli Katoa concussion controversy

The NRL have proposed two-year bans to the Tonga officials involved in the sickening injuries to Eli Katoa last month.

Katoa suffered seizures on the sidelines after copping three separate head knocks in the space of 90 minutes in a clash against New Zealand on November 2.

The Melbourne Storm star has been ruled out of the entire 2026 season after undergoing emergency brain surgery, but remains hopeful of continuing his career in the future.

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Katoa suffered a serious head knock in a collision with a teammate during the warm-up, but still played the match and then copped two more head knocks before finally being ruled out.

The NRL launched an investigation into Tonga’s handling of the incident after footage of the pre-match hit with teammate quickly sparked concern.

Eli Katoa has been ruled out for the entire 2026 season. Credit: Instagram

The investigation identified “a number of serious concerns”, including the failure of responsible medical and health professionals to share and disclose information that was vital to the health of Katoa.

Tonga’s head doctor, assistant doctor and head trainer have all been issued with two-year bans from being involved with any club, team or player in the NRL competitions, representative competitions or any other competition conducted under the auspices of the NRL or ARLC.

Additionally, the yellow shirt trainer (Medical Assistant) has been issued with a formal warning.

All individuals involved will also be required to undergo further training on their responsibilities under the NRL’s policy for management of possible head injuries and concussions.

They have five business days to respond to the penalties.

More to come …