362. The Altitude

England's footballers have been permitted to take Viagra before their World Cup matches in Mexico City. This is for altitude. Mexico City sits at approximately 7,350 feet above sea level. At this altitude, the body receives less oxygen. The Football Association looked at this problem and determined that Viagra was a solution.

Viagra was developed in 1989 as a treatment for high blood pressure and chest pain. Researchers noted it had secondary effects. The primary medical application became something else. The Football Association is interested in the original application. They want the blood vessels. They are not interested in the other part.

The players will be in Mexico City. They will be playing against Mexico. The stadium will be in Mexico. The crowd will largely be from Mexico. England's eleven will take the field having been medically permitted to bring Pfizer.

The statement from the Football Association notes that the drug is approved and that usage is optional. The players are not required to take Viagra before playing football in Mexico. They are simply allowed to. The option exists. The team doctor has the prescription.

England has won the World Cup once, in 1966. The match was played at Wembley. Wembley is at approximately 60 feet above sea level. Viagra was not required.

The altitude in Mexico City will not change before the match.