Brazil's sports minister says Corinthians' stadium in Sao Paulo probably won't be ready for the 2013 Confederations Cup, meaning Brazil's largest city may be left out of the World Cup tuneup competition.
Orlando Silva told local media Sunday that Sao Paulo officials said the stadium is unlikely to be finished before the Confederations Cup. They guarantee, however, that it will be ready in time for the 2014 World Cup, even though construction work is not expected to start until next month.
Corinthians rival Palmeiras is renovating its stadium in Sao Paulo and could be an alternative for the Confederations Cup. However, authorities have not officially made it available for the competition.
Sao Paulo wants to host the 2014 World Cup opener at Corinthians' stadium.
