The stadium that has lagged behind all others in preparation for this summer’s World Cup in Brazil has received a public boost from Jerome Valcke, FIFA’s secretary-general.
Curitiba’s Arena da Baixada has been the subject of severe negative press and there have even been unconfirmed threats of a relocation of its World Cup matches should any delays continue.
But a FIFA statement said, simply: “FIFA secretary-general Jerome Valcke believes that Curitiba is moving in the right direction.”
The timely boost will come as a welcome piece of news by those in charge at the Arena da Baixada, not least its home tenants Atletico Paranaense.
The stadium is due to host four matches at this year’s tournament and FIFA’s statement clams any talk of players and fans having to relinquish plans to attend games.
