The union representing the workforce demand that higher salaries and the provision of meal vouchers are given to their workers or a strike could start as soon as next week.

Maracana is expected to host the 2014 World Cup final but that could be in jeopardy if the strike goes ahead.

Renovations were originally scheduled to be completed by December ahead of the tournament to be hosted in June/July 2014.

The stadium is expected to host matches during the 2013 Confederations Cup and also be the venue for both the opening and closing ceremonies of the Rio Olympics in 2016.