The governor of Mato Grosso, Silval Barbosa, acknowledges the extensive construction projects but reassures that the works will be finished on time. However, opposition municipal councilor Dile Mario Alencar expresses skepticism, pointing out issues such as a lack of planning, increased costs, and a race against time.
The Arena Pantanal stadium, estimated to cost 540 million reais for four World Cup matches, is reportedly 87% ready, but finishing touches and compliance with FIFA’s delivery deadline by December 31 are crucial. The stadium’s completion may extend into January, according to the governor.
Despite the acquisition of nine new hotels, providing a total of 25,000 beds, finding hotel rooms during the World Cup in Cuiaba may still be challenging, especially considering the stadium’s capacity of 43,000 seats. Alternative solutions are being explored with local residents to address the deficit in accommodations.
As a symbolic note, the official countdown clock in the center of Cuiaba, marking the time until the World Cup, stopped working, reflecting the uncertainties surrounding the city’s preparations.
