England’s secret altitude weapon? Why Harry Kane and Co are allowed to use Viagra before Mexico match

In an attempt to combat the high-altitude problems against Mexico in their Round of 16 clash in the ongoing FIFA World Cup 2026, the England players have been allowed to use Viagra. One of the favourites to go deep into the tournament, England survived a scare against DR Congo in the Round of 32 clash when Brian Cipenga's seventh-minute strike put them on the back foot.

However, it was a Harry Kane brace that helped England come from behind to earn a ticket to the last 16. 

The decision to allow Viagra for players was reported by The Sun, as England prepare themselves for a place in the quarterfinals. Ahead of their clash against Mexico, England head coach Thomas Tuchel has already stressed the harsh altitude conditions at the Mexico City stadium.

So far, England have played all their four games in the United States, winning three and drawing once. Their next match against Mexico will be played at the Mexico City stadium, situated at an elevation of 2,200 m (7,220 feet) above sea level. While Mexico are used to such conditions, it will be tough for former champions, whose only and last title came in 1966.

The toughest challenge for the England players would be to control the ball, which is expected to fly further, and also the bounce at such an elevation.

How will Viagra help England players?

Viagra is best known for treating erectile dysfunction. But according The Sun, a deeper medical study reveals that it widens the blood vessels in the lungs, thus helping oxygen to be pumped around the system and keep the blood pressure in control, which is needed at higher altitudes, in places where there is less oxygen in the air.

The use of Viagra will help players counter fatigue that occurs while playing at a higher altitude, allowing widened blood vessels in the lungs to counteract dizziness. Won't the players have an erection? No. The footballers are likely to reap the benefits of endurance and cardiovascular activities unless they find themselves sexually stimulated during the game.

Is Viagra on WADA list of banned substances?

The usage of Viagra won't put England footballers in trouble as it is not on the 2026 list of prohibited substances published by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) from the start of January. This is not the first time Viagra will be used in a football match to combat high-altitude problems.

Back in 2019, Argentina's domestic football side Union de Santa Fe used Viagra to combat the high-altitude problems when they faced Independiente del Valle in the Ecuadorian capital of Quito, reported by ESPN. The match was played at the Estadio Olimpico Atahualpa, which is situated at 2,850 metres above sea level.

Mexican President's message to fans

Meanwhile, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum urged fans to avoid heavy drinking and steer clear of packed gathering spots if the national team beat England on Sunday in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 clash.

Sheinbaum's message to the fans came after celebrations following Mexico's last victory left at least four people dead in the capital. The deaths occurred near Mexico City's central Paseo de la Reforma, where about one million people gathered to celebrate Mexico's 2-0 win over Ecuador.

"We must avoid alcohol abuse, because whenever there is excessive drinking at these kinds of celebrations, problems can arise, including more violence linked to alcohol," Sheinbaum said at her regular morning press conference.

Get all updates fromFIFA World Cup 2026 here, along withFIFA World Cup 2026 Complete Schedule andFIFA World Cup 2026 Points Table.