RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL—The stadium due to host the athletic events at the 2016 Olympics will not be demolished, despite structural problems. Mayor Eduardo Paes said that he had closed the Joao Havelange stadium on Tuesday because the roof was at risk of collapsing, but Paes stated that further studies would be needed to see what was causing the problem.
The stadium is to remain closed until the root of the problem is found. Paes said that he came to this conclusion after receiving three of the latest surveys on the structure.
“It says there is a risk.” Paes told correspondents. “Our priority here is to protect the lives of people, that’s why we closed it.”
The report presented outlined a risk of collapse if there were winds speeds greater than 40 miles per hour. The roof problems seem to stem from poor construction work, according to reports.
The Engenhao Stadium in Brazil, according to spokespeople from Brazil, will be ready for the 2016 Olympics. The stadium was built six years ago and hosted the 2007 Pan American games.
It is scheduled to host the athletic events at the Rio Olympics, but the opening and closing ceremonies will take place at the city’s Maracana stadium.
By: Julia Roake
Source: BBC
Image: BBC
28 March 2013