2014 Cup final stage finally has a builder

The major renovation of Rio de Janeiro´s hallowed Maracanã stadium for the 2014 World cup has moved a step closer to fruition with the selection of a consortium responsible for the works. The Maracanã Rio 2014 consortium, consisting of Brazilian companies Andrade Gutierrez, Odebrecht and Delta, presented the lowest quote of R$705.6 million, which is 2.14% less than the cost predicted in the project budget. The second placed tender, by construction giant OAS, came in at R$712 million.

The total cost of the stadium, which will be the biggest of all 12 Cup hosts at 86,000 capacity, could rise to R$880 million according to the 25% leeway allowed in the project regulations.

The renovation is expected to begin within the next month, however matches will continue to be held until the end of the year, with a closing date yet to be set. The finish date for the works remains December 2012.

A private operator will eventually be sought on a 35 year concession model.