Thomas Tuchel Denies England Will Use Viagra for Altitude Advantage in Mexico Match

Thomas Tuchel has dismissed rumors suggesting that England might use Viagra to help cope with the high altitude conditions in Mexico City during their upcoming World Cup match against Mexico. The game is scheduled for Monday at the Azteca Stadium, which is located 2,200 metres above sea level.

Mexico will host England at the Azteca Stadium, known for its challenging altitude and a passionate home crowd. The elevated location poses physical challenges such as increased pulse rate, faster breathing, dehydration, and reduced oxygen levels in the blood. These factors have prompted speculation about potential performance aids.

Viagra, a drug originally developed to treat high blood pressure, has been suggested as a possible aid for athletes to mitigate altitude-related difficulties. It works by dilating blood vessels in the lungs, preventing constriction caused by an enzyme, which can be beneficial in thin air environments.

Despite these claims, Tuchel, England’s head coach, stated that he had not received any information supporting the use of Viagra by the team and categorically denied the reports. He said, "The information and the support didn't reach me. That is not true."

Adding a lighter note, former Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson joked about the altitude adjustment, saying, "Well, the Viagra helps... I'm joking, it's a joke."

Reports from the Sun had indicated that England players might be allowed to use Viagra since it is not listed as a banned substance by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA). The medication’s ability to reduce lung pressure was cited as a reason why it could ease the strain of competing at high altitudes.

England’s squad is determined to avoid the difficulties they encountered in their Round of 32 match against DR Congo, where they narrowly secured a 2-1 victory thanks to two goals from Harry Kane. The team had previously drawn 0-0 with Ghana in the group stage and then managed to score against Panama through Jude Bellingham and Kane.

Looking ahead, the winner of the England-Mexico match will face Brazil or Norway in the quarter-finals, with that game set to take place in Miami on July 11.