Ahead of England’s 2026 World Cup Round of 16 clash with Mexico at Estadio Azteca, multiple outlets report that the team is considering allowing players to use sildenafil (commonly known as Viagra) to help cope with Mexico City’s high altitude. The stadium is reported to sit at roughly 2,000–2,240 metres above sea level, where thinner air can reduce oxygen availability and affect physical performance over the course of a match. Several reports link the discussion to advice from medical staff and the drug’s medical effects, including its role in widening blood vessels, which could theoretically support circulation in lower-oxygen conditions.
The reports also consistently note that sildenafil is not listed as a prohibited substance by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), meaning athletes can use it in and out of competition, subject to anti-doping rules. However, sources differ in tone, with some describing the situation as a joke or denying the need, and none provide confirmation that any England player will actually take the medication. The decision is presented as an option among others while England prepare for limited time to acclimatise after training in Kansas City and arriving close to kick-off.
