Craig Bellamy Diagnosed With Neurodegenerative Disorder

Melbourne Storm coach Craig Bellamy has been diagnosed with a neurodegenerative disorder, the club announced on Thursday. Despite the diagnosis, the 66-year-old Bellamy will continue to coach the team “in the immediate future,” according to a club statement. The news comes amid a challenging start to the season for the Storm, who are currently on a six-match losing streak.

The club confirmed that Bellamy underwent a series of medical tests in recent weeks, leading to the diagnosis. “Over recent weeks, in consultation with specialists, Craig has undergone a series of medical tests and has since been diagnosed with a form of neurodegenerative disorder,” the statement read. “He is receiving the best possible medical treatment and has been advised by specialists that his diagnosis will not have an impact on his ability to coach the team in the immediate future.”

Neurodegenerative disorders encompass a range of conditions including Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, and Motor Neurone Disease (MND). The specific type of neurodegenerative disorder affecting Bellamy has not been disclosed.

Storm Chairman Expresses Support

Melbourne Storm chairman Matt Tripp affirmed the club’s unwavering support for Bellamy. “Despite our recent results, I firmly believe Craig is still coaching at an elite level and I have no doubt he is the right person to drive the club forward,” Tripp said. “Craig has the full support of the board, players, coaches, and staff to continue leading the club as he has done for the last 24 seasons.”

Bellamy has been the head coach of the Melbourne Storm since 2003, leading the team to three NRL premierships – in 2007, 2009, and 2012. His tenure has been marked by consistent success, making the current losing streak particularly notable.

Recent Health Concerns Within the Storm

Bellamy’s diagnosis adds to a series of recent health concerns within the Melbourne Storm organization. In November, forward Eli Katoa underwent surgery to address a brain bleed sustained from multiple head knocks and will miss the entire 2026 NRL season. Forward Tui Kamikamica is currently sidelined after suffering a stroke and undergoing both brain and heart surgery.

The Storm’s current six-game losing streak represents their worst run of form since Bellamy took over as coach in 2003. They are scheduled to play the Brisbane Dolphins on Friday night at Lang Park in Brisbane.

The club has requested privacy regarding the matter, stating, “Given the private nature of the diagnosis, Craig and the club will make no further comment on the matter.”