A worker stands in front of a mockup of the new Itaquerao stadium, which was slated to host the World Cup opener next year
Three deaths have been reported since part of the stadium that will host the World Cup opener next year has collapsed on Wednesday, November 27. The accident also caused significant damage.
This could also mean a delay in delivering all 12 venues of the Itaquerao Stadium, which was 94 percent completed, by FIFA's December deadline.
A huge metal structure appears to be buckled atop the stadium. It reportedly destroyed part of the stands in the east side of the venue, and an LED panel installed outside the venue also was hit.
Firefighter officials say at least three people died in the accident, which apparently happened when a crane collapsed on top of the metal structure. Rescue teams are checking the area.
The club that owns the stadium, Corinthians, have just issued a statement on their website, saying, "The board of Sport Club Corinthians Paulista deeply regrets the accident earlier in Corinthians Arena."
Earlier, Brazil had admitted it is struggling to have all 12 venues ready. Six of Brazil's stadiums are not yet ready for the World Cup next summer. Construction problems and public protests about the money being spent have delayed the preparations.
On Tuesday, Danny Jordaan, who was behind South Africa's preparations for the 2010 World Cup, said Brazil might have to start round-the-clock construction work if it was to get things ready for the tournament.
The world football’s governing body FIFA set a December 31 deadline for finishing the work.
The crane collapsed as it was lifting a 500-ton lattice structure to the top of the stands, bringing down three metal structures, Globo television reported.
The company overseeing the construction work immediately halted work and said it would investigate.
The stadium is one of 12 World Cup venues and Brazil has been struggling to overhaul sagging infrastructure in time for the games.
The reported 11 billion dollar cost of staging the event has aroused public protests. Click to signup for FREE news updates, latest information and hottest gists everyday
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