Work will now continue on a new modern roof, which uses solar panels to heat showers in the famous Stadium, and the concrete removed will be recycled elsewhere as part of the $643 million (£400 million/€454 million) renovation.

The cost of the roof itself is estimated at $200 million (£124 million/€141 million) by the Public Works department, and it will feature a drainage system allowing for the collection and reuse of rainwater.

It is a boost for the World Cup preparations, which have been harmed by delays, with the need to renovate the roof at the Maracanã discovered earlier this year after their were issues with the previous structure.

Despite these concerns, FIFA last week confirmed that it would host both the final of the World Cup in 2014, as well as the final of the Confederations Cup in 2013.

Work on the venue is expected to be completed in February 2013, two months later than originally planned.

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