A storm of controversy has erupted ahead of the NRL Grand Final as the victims of Brisbane Broncos star Ezra Mam’s drug-driving crash have spoken out, expressing deep shock and anger that the young playmaker is still set to line up for the biggest game of the year.
The emotional fallout stems from an incident earlier this season, in which Mam was involved in a drug-related driving crash that left several people injured. Though the investigation and legal proceedings are ongoing, the decision by club officials and the NRL to allow him to continue playing has sparked widespread outrage — particularly among those directly affected by the crash.
Speaking to reporters, one victim, who suffered serious injuries in the accident, said they were “disgusted and heartbroken” by the decision. “It feels like our pain means nothing compared to football,” the individual stated. “He’s being celebrated while we’re still trying to recover from what happened. There’s no justice in that.”
Another victim expressed similar frustration, calling the situation “a slap in the face” to those who have endured months of physical and emotional trauma. “We’ve lost so much because of this crash — our peace, our health, and our sense of safety,” they said. “Meanwhile, he gets to walk out to cheers on Grand Final night. It’s wrong.”
Ezra Mam, one of the NRL’s brightest young stars, has been instrumental in the Broncos’ campaign this season, guiding them to another shot at Premiership glory. But off the field, the 22-year-old’s actions have cast a dark shadow over what was shaping up to be a fairytale season for the club.
The Broncos have faced intense criticism for their handling of the matter. Despite public pressure, the team’s management has maintained that Mam should be allowed to play pending the outcome of the legal process. Head Coach Kevin Walters defended the decision earlier this week, saying, “We’re letting the process run its course. Ezra has been transparent with us, and we’re supporting him through this difficult time.”
However, fans and commentators have questioned whether the club’s stance prioritises performance over accountability. NRL Integrity Unit officials are believed to be monitoring the situation closely, though they have yet to announce any disciplinary action before the Grand Final.
On social media, the backlash has been fierce. Hashtags such as #NRLIntegrity and #JusticeForVictims have begun trending, with many calling for Mam to be stood down until the case concludes. One fan wrote, “If it were anyone else, they’d be suspended immediately. The NRL keeps saying it’s about respect and integrity — now’s the time to prove it.”
Despite the controversy, Mam is reportedly focused on the upcoming final, determined to help his side lift the trophy. He has not yet made a public statement addressing the victims’ comments or the growing outrage surrounding his situation.
As the countdown to the Grand Final continues, the story threatens to overshadow the game itself — raising uncomfortable questions about how far professional sport is willing to go to protect its stars, even in the face of serious allegations.
For the victims, however, the issue is painfully simple. “We just want accountability,” one said quietly. “We want people to remember that behind every story like this, there are lives that have been changed forever.”
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