Most Brazilians against World Cup

Less than half of Brazilians favour the nation’s hosting of the World Cup in June, with a majority in the football-crazed nation believing that the tournament will do more harm than good, a poll reveals.

Just 48% of Brazilians support hosting the event, down from 52% in February and dropping below 50% for the first time, a survey by Datafolha found, though the company said the difference was within its margin of error.

The approval rate has dropped from a high of 79% in November 2008, a year after Brazil was selected, amid cost overruns, deadly construction accidents and concern that delays in building stadiums and airports in 12 cities could embarrass the country on the international stage.

Indeed, the number of Brazilians opposed to hosting the 32-nation event is also rising, with 41% against it now, up from 38% in February and 10% in 2008, the survey showed.

The result is surprising for the football-loving nation that has won five World Cup titles, more than any other country. Brazil last hosted the tournament in 1950.

The event poses an increasing risk to President Dilma Rousseff, who is widely expected to be re-elected in the general elections in October, as she may see support slump if the World Cup is not a success.