Ezra Mam of the Broncos accepts 9-game suspension and fined $120,000
Ezra Mam has agreed to pay a total of $120,000 in fines to Brisbane and the NRL after accepting a nine-game suspension for driving offenses.
The Brisbane Broncos formally announced Mam’s acceptance of the NRL sanctions late on Friday, which reportedly include a nine-match ban and a $30,000 penalty.
In addition to the NRL sanctions, Brisbane has imposed a separate $90,000 fine on the 22-year-old for driving under the influence while unlicensed following a car crash in October.
The club’s fine may be paid over multiple years as Mam is contracted to Brisbane until the end of 2029.
The Broncos revealed that Mam must also complete a safe-driving program, engage in work or study placement, and commit to ongoing wellbeing support.
Mam was also fined $850 and had his license suspended for nine months by Brisbane’s Magistrate’s Court last week, a decision that drew criticism for being too lenient.
“While we are deeply disappointed with the situation, we feel that the penalties imposed by both the NRL and the club appropriately address the seriousness of the events and should serve as a deterrent against such dangerous and irresponsible behavior,” expressed Broncos CEO Dave Donaghy in a statement.
“Ezra acknowledges his wrongdoing, taking ownership of his actions and expressing sincere remorse to all affected parties.
“He recognizes the impact his actions have had on those around him as well as the sport.
“Ezra has taken positive steps to rectify his life since the incident occurred, and this progress must continue. We have been clear about this.
“We believe the additional measures in place are crucial and will support Ezra’s integration back into the Broncos’ ongoing initiatives.”
Additionally, Mam will not be permitted to participate in the Indigenous All-Stars event during his suspension, meaning he will be ineligible to return until Brisbane faces South Sydney in round 10 of the 2025 season.
Mam’s absence is likely to result in Ben Hunt partnering with Adam Reynolds for the initial two months of the season at Brisbane following his transfer from St George Illawarra.
Subsequently, Hunt may transition to the hooker position if Mam and Reynolds are available, allowing him to share responsibilities in the dummy-half role with Billy Walters.
By Scott Bailey and Joel Gould.