FIFA: Sao Paulo will be ready for World Cup

SAO PAULO - FIFA secretary general Jerome Valcke said Monday he has no doubt Itaquerao stadium in Sao Paulo will be ready in time for next year's World Cup.

Earlier this year Valcke warned Sao Paulo could be taken off the tournament's schedule if construction work was not stepped up at the venue.

"I remember that during the Confederations Cup we had an emergency meeting because we were afraid about when this stadium would be delivered," Valcke said.

"And I can tell you that, yes, the stadium will be delivered on time and, yes, it will be ready to organize the opening game of the World Cup and also for test events here before this opening game."

Sao Paulo was Valcke's first stop of a four-day tour that will also include inspections of stadiums in Curitiba, Manaus and Rio de Janeiro.

Six of the 12 World Cup venues not used during this year's Confederations Cup have been given a December deadline by FIFA for the completion of construction work.

FIFA Secretary General Jerome Valcke visits the site of the new Arena de Sao Paulo Stadium, one of the venues for the 2014 World Cup, in Sao Paulo, Aug 19, 2013. The Arena de Sao Paulo Stadium will host the opening match of the 2014 World Cup. [Photo/Agencies]