The reports suggest that Lionel Messi, despite having a sponsorship deal with Pepsi, was known to be a big fan of Coca Cola. Allegedly, at Inter Miami, where Messi plays, the vending machines had to be removed because Messi would buy a can of Cola every day, and the coaches were concerned about its potential impact on his fitness.

Soft drinks, in general, are not recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) due to their high sugar content, which can be especially concerning for individuals with pre-existing health conditions. A single can of Coca Cola reportedly contains 39g (or 10 teaspoons) of sugar, exceeding the daily recommended limit by WHO.

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While soft drinks are not considered ideal for health, some argue that the caffeine and carbohydrates present in cola beverages can have benefits for athletes. Caffeine is seen as a stimulator that can help athletes stay focused, and carbohydrates can provide a quick energy boost.

According to pharmacist Niraj Naik, Coca Cola could potentially be turned into a sports drink by boiling it to remove gases that cause bloating and diluting it with water to manage the concentration of sugar, caffeine, and carbs. However, other sports drinks with additional beneficial ingredients like potassium and magnesium are generally considered better options.

Sports doctor Valentin Belyaevsky recommends limiting cola consumption to no more than two cans a week and consuming it only after meals to minimize potential harm. Overall, moderation and considering the broader nutritional profile of beverages are essential factors in making informed choices for athletes and individuals alike.