Worker Dies in Accident at Brazilian World Cup Stadium in Manaus

Brazil's preparations for the 2014 World Cup took another tragic turn, as a worker at Arena da Amazonia in Manaus was killed in an accident at the site.

From Sky Sports News:

Updates from Saturday, Feb. 8

Sao Paulo of the Associated Press reports that World Cup Workers are threatening to strike, (via Fox Sports):

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Workers at a World Cup stadium in the jungle city of Manaus are threatening to go on strike to demand better conditions following a third recent construction-related death at the venue.

A walkout could further delay the completion of the Arena da Amazonia just months before the start of football's showcase tournament.

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Original Text:

Tales Azzoni of the Associated Press (via The Washington Times) has more:

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Organizers in charge of the city’s preparations said the worker died Friday while dismantling a crane that was used to install the roof of the Arena da Amazonia. 

Spokesman Eric Gamboa confirmed the worker’s death, the third linked to the stadium’s construction.

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In December, a worker died at the same stadium after falling from the roof, while later that day another worker died from a heart attack. Additionally, two workers died at the Sao Paulo stadium in November after a crane collapsed, while another worker died in April at the Palmeiras stadium.

The incidents and concerns surrounding the stadium construction have come fast and furious for Brazil. On February 6, FIFA requested more workers be added to finish the Arena da Baixada in Curitiba for fear the site wouldn't be finished in time for June, according to the Associated Press (via Fox News).

Of course, the stadiums aren't the only concerns for the 2014 World Cup.

Mass protests are expected at the event itself in the various host cities, to the point that Brazilian security forces are vigilantly keeping tabs on potential anti-government protestors leading up to the event, according to Brian Winter of Reuters.

Brazilian citizens have held demonstrations and even rioted in opposition to the World Cup being held in the country, including during last summer's Confederations Cup. Generally speaking, many Brazilians are furious over the large amount of money spent for the World Cup while other domestic issues are ignored by the government.

The combination of all of these factors has more than a few folks a bit concerned about the upcoming World Cup. And the continued casualties at the building sites of stadiums, many of which are behind schedule, are both tragic and troubling.