• Full-scale strike threatened for next week if demands not met • Renovation behind schedule before June's Confederations Cup

This article is more than 7 years old

This article is more than 7 years old

Workers renovating Rio de Janeiro's Maracanã stadium, due to host the final at the 2014 World Cup, halted work on Monday and threaten to stage a full-scale strike beginning next week if their demands for better salaries and benefits were not met.

The workers said the stoppage was a warning; negotiations with the construction companies are under way. The workforce wants higher salaries and meal vouchers, and health plans.

The union representing the workers said they were expected to return to work on Tuesday but a strike could start as early as Monday.

The renovation at Maracanã is already behind schedule. It was originally expected to be completed in December.

The famed stadium will host three matches during the Confederations Cup from June 15-30, including the final.