9 Oct 2013

FIFA keeps up pressure on Brazil over world cup venues

5:18 am on 9 October 2013

The Secretary General of football's world governing body FIFA say his visits to World Cup venues in Brazil are a means of keeping up the pressure for the country to be ready for next June.

Jerome Valcke has made several visits to Brazil to check on progress at the 12 venues.

Last year he caused concern in the host nation by suggesting it needed a kick up the backside to ensure it was 100 percent ready.

But on his latest visit he says there has been a big change although six stadiums are yet to be finished.

Brazil says all the venues will be ready but there have been several issues including a judge last week halting construction at one venue over concerns for workers conditions.