Brazilian Tourist Board (Embratur) and the Brazilian ministry of sport have announced the latest progress of the country’s preparations for the 2014 FIFA World Cup and introduced the 12 cities hosting the matches at a press conference in London. 

The London edition of ‘Goal to Brazil’, a global road-show organised by Embratur, also saw Tourism chiefs unveil what British tourists visiting the country for next year’s tournament, can expect from Brazil with a focus on Curitiba. 

Marco Lomanto, director of products and destinations at Embratur, said: “2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil is a unique moment in time for Brazil to reveal itself as a diverse and modern country.

“We are looking forward to hosting the Confederations Cup this Summer in six of the 12 host cities and showcasing the preparations and infrastructure we have built to host mega-events.”

Following successful ‘Goal to Brazil’ events around the globe including Milan, Berlin and Paris, it was London’s turn to play host, with the focus of the event on the host city of Curitiba, located in Brazil’s southern state of Parana.

Curitiba is known as the world leader in sustainable city planning, with over 26 parks.

The FIFA 2014 World Cup stadium in Curitiba, Arena da Baixada, is due for completion in July 2013 and will have capacity for 41,000 spectators after an investment of over £78 million.

Sergio Povoa Pires, president, Institute for Research and Urban Planning of Curitiba, said: “Curitiba is an exciting city where international tourism will grow with the help of FIFA 2014 World Cup Brazil.

“The city is a leader in sustainable planning and our focus has been on group transport such as bicycle systems and pedestrian routes. 

“This will enable tourists to navigate the city smoothly, efficiently and without impacting on the local environment.”

Over 100 UK tourism professionals also took part in a work-shop to educate themselves with the host cities in Brazil ahead of the upcoming mega events which will see an estimated one million additional international tourists to the country. 

As well as providing up-to-date information about destinations throughout Brazil, the workshop was also hosted by the local tourist board for Curitiba helping to familiarise the trade with this city and the surrounding area.