Brazilian government prepares for World Cup

The Brazilian government has outlined some of its preparations for the football World Cup, which is being held in the country in 2014.

According to tourism minister Marta Suplicy, authorities are planning to create brand new upgrades to its transport infrastructure, reports the International Herald Tribune.

The official stated that a proposal to create a high-speed rail link between Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro is under consideration, along with plans to expand air traffic.

Ms Suplicy commented: "The 2014 World Cup is a great opportunity for the country to raise its visibility before the world."

This is only the second time that Brazil has hosted the tournament, as it staged the event back in 1950.

Antonio Lopes, a former Brazilian international, recently told Reuters that the whole country is likely to benefit from the World Cup.

Speaking to the news agency, he said Brazil will benefit "financially and economically".