World Cup stars to fast during Ramadan
Some of the World Cup’s football stars will have to manage their religious and footballing duties with the holy month of Ramadan set to begin during the second round of World Cup finals.
It will be the first time since 1986 that the Islamic period of worship has fallen during the World Cup.
Muslims fast from dawn until dusk during Ramadan and are supposed to refrain from all food and drink - and that could affect scores of players on show in Brazil this summer.
Ramadan begins on June 28 in Brazil, which is the first day of Second Round matches - and runs until July 27.
France, Germany, Switzerland, Belgium, Algeria and Nigeria are among the teams that have Muslim players who may choose to observe the 30-day period of fasting and reflection.
France stars including Real Madrid’s Karim Benzema, Mamadou Sakho of Liverpool, Arsenal defender Bacary Sagna and Newcastle’s Moussa Sissoko are all practising Muslims. It will be a challenge to fast in Brazil's hot and humid weather while playing competitive football.
Another muslim player, Mesut Ozil, has opted not to fast while he is playing for Germany. "Ramadan starts on Saturday, but I will not take part because I am working," he told a press conference on Wednesday.
Fasting period in Brazil, however, is only 12 hours and 4 minutes, one of the shortest fasting periods around the globe.
If players can plan their intake of fluids, then there is a chance that many of the Muslim players may fast while playing in the biggest sporting event in the world.
