Parramatta Eels player Josh Addo-Carr's immediate playing future is uncertain following an alleged positive test for cocaine during a roadside stop. The incident, which occurred Friday night in Newtown, Sydney, marks the second time in two years the 31-year-old flyer has faced such allegations while driving. Addo-Carr was pulled over for a random test and, according to police, returned a positive roadside wipe test for cocaine. He is currently awaiting the results of an oral fluid sample.
The Parramatta Eels confirmed Saturday afternoon they were aware of the incident involving Addo-Carr. "The Parramatta Eels are aware of an alleged incident involving Josh Addo-Carr," the club stated. "The club has notified the NRL Integrity Unit and is co-operating with the appropriate processes, as well as providing welfare support to Josh and his family. Parramatta Eels will not be commenting further until the matter has been finalised."
This situation echoes a similar incident in late 2024, which led to the termination of Addo-Carr's final year of contract with the Canterbury Bulldogs. Following that event, he maintained he had not knowingly ingested recreational drugs. He was subsequently handed a four-match ban by the NRL integrity unit and a $15,000 fine. Additionally, he was fined $682 and suspended from driving for three months.
The NRL's illicit drug policy outlines consequences for positive drug tests, including suspended fines and mandatory treatment programs. A second offense typically results in a 12-match ban and a fine, along with further treatment, and includes an option for contract termination. It remains unclear if roadside police tests fall directly under this policy.
Addo-Carr, a five-time Australian representative, had been included in Australia's preliminary 40-man Rugby League World Cup squad, but his selection in the final group now appears unlikely. The tournament is scheduled for October and November. If charged and found guilty of the offense, Addo-Carr would likely face an integrity unit ban, at the very least. He is contracted to Parramatta until the end of next year.
NSW Police confirmed on Saturday that a 31-year-old driver underwent a preliminary drug wipe, which allegedly returned a positive indication for cocaine. The driver had passed a roadside alcohol breath test. "An oral fluid sample was obtained and sent for further analysis," a NSW Police spokesperson said. "The investigation is ongoing, as police await the results of the forensic analysis."