The Olympic stadium was engulfed in flames.

The velodrome at Rio Olympic Park caught fire for the third time in eight years, destroying the roof, but fortunately there were no casualties.

Fire engulfs the dome of a stadium in Brazil. Photo: Rio de Janeiro Fire Department - CBMERJ .

A major fire broke out at the velodrome in Rio de Janeiro's Olympic Park in the early hours of April 8, burning down half of the roof.

This is the third time in eight years that this building has experienced a fire or explosion, following two incidents that occurred just months apart in 2017.

According to information from the capital's fire department, the fire broke out at around 4:17 a.m. Nearly 80 firefighters and 20 specialized vehicles were mobilized to control the blaze. Thick black smoke enveloped the surrounding area for several hours.

Authorities confirmed that the fire primarily affected the roof, which was made of composite material. When it burned, this fabric melted and formed spiderweb-like fibers, making the scene particularly striking.

Thankfully, there were no casualties. Authorities said the interior of the arena, including the racetrack, was not seriously affected.

Rio de Janeiro Mayor Eduardo Cavaliere confirmed that the structure remains intact. However, the stadium will need cleaning and maintenance before it can be used again.

The cause of the fire has not yet been determined. Authorities say the fire may have started outside the roof area, but the conclusion of the investigation is pending.

The Rio Velodrome was a venue for the 2016 Olympics, where the Great Britain cycling team won six gold medals. After the Games, the structure was used as a training center for the Brazilian cycling and weightlifting teams, and also houses the Olympic Museum.

The repeated fires at the same location raise many questions about the operation and safety of one of Brazil's most important sports facilities.

The Brazilian national team is unusually 'tame'. Gone are the boisterous egos and scandalous private lives; the current Brazilian team has a rare calm demeanor, where discipline and teamwork are prioritized over individual brilliance.

Source: https://znews.vn/san-olympic-bao-trum-boi-bien-lua-post1641947.html