A BBC News correspondent underwent scientific testing to measure the physical toll of watching World Cup football. The investigation tracked heart rate, stress hormones, and other markers during live matches. The verdict? Watching football triggers real physiological stress—the kind you'd see during exercise. But whether that emotional intensity is a cardiovascular risk or simply the healthy thrill of fandom is the question scientists are grappling with.

Listen to this story

Hear this and more stories in a personalized audio briefing.

Open The Chonkerton