A part of the stadium, known as "Itaquerao", in Sao Paulo Brazil collapsed on Wednesday, killing at least three people and causing significant damage to the venue, which will host the 2014 World Cup opening game, authorities said, as The Associated Press reported.
"Television images showed a huge metal structure buckled atop the stadium, destroying part of the stands in the east side of the venue," The AP also reported.
At least three people died in the incident, which happened as a crane collapsed on top of the metal structure. The crane was "installing what had been the last part of the structure," news reports said. The accident occurred around mid-day on Wednesday, there were not as many workers on site,
Regardless, authorities and the FIFA establishment expressed sadness.
"FIFA and the [Local Organizing Committee] have learnt of the death of workers at the Corinthian's Arena site in Sao Paulo with great sadness. We wish to send our heartfelt condolences to the family of the workers who tragically died today," FIFA said in a statement. "We know the safety of all workers has always been paramount for all the construction companies contracted to build the 12 FIFA World Cup stadiums. The local authorities will fully investigate the reasons behind such a tragic accident," it added.
"Itaquerao" is expected to seat nearly 70,000 people for the opening game on June 12, as well as five matches, including the semifinal, The AP also reported.
Delays with financing for the stadium "prompted authorities to cancel the scrape he stadium from the World Cup warm-up tournament," according to news reports.
Brazil is one of the most popular places for fútbol, and the national team is a favorite to win the 2014 World Cup. Its players are as popular abroad as much as they are at home.
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