England players have been given the option to use Viagra ahead of their 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 16 clash against Mexico, not for its well-known purpose, but to help combat the effects of playing at high altitude in Mexico City.
The match will be played at the Estadio Azteca, which sits more than 2,200 metres above sea level. The thinner air can reduce oxygen intake and affect stamina, making it difficult for teams that are not accustomed to such conditions.
Viagra, or sildenafil, was originally developed to treat high blood pressure and can improve blood flow to the lungs. It is not on the World Anti-Doping Agency’s (WADA) list of prohibited substances, meaning players are allowed to use it if deemed medically appropriate.
There is no evidence that England’s squad will actually take the medication. However, manager Thomas Tuchel and the team’s medical staff are exploring all legal methods to help players cope with the demanding conditions as they aim to overcome co-hosts Mexico and reach the World Cup quarter-finals.
