Brasilia’s seventies National Stadium has been rebuilt to the tune of £258m to become arguably the greenest arena in the world. It will be a key venue at the 2016 Olympics but, unlike its London counterpart, its real purpose is crystal clear: it’s all about the beautiful game. By Ike Ijeh
With the 2012 Olympics only a few weeks away, much of the world’s attention is understandably focused on London. But there is one part of the globe where people’s gaze will not be distracted by sporting events going on here. Brazil is hosting the 2014 World Cup and the 2016 Olympics, and the country is surging ahead with preparations of its own for its extended stint in the global spotlight.