SAO PAULO (AP) — Three top-tier clubs on Monday urged Brazil’s soccer federation to suspend their national league matches for the next 20 days because of serious flooding.
Internacional, Gremio and Juventude are based in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, which has been devastated by floods since last week.
Authorities say at least 83 people have been killed over the last seven days in the region and another 111 are reported missing.
The stadiums of Internacional and Gremio in the state capital Porto Alegre have been inundated and severely damaged by the water.
“The absolute priority at this moment is to support thousands of people who have been hit,” Internacional said in a statement. “We ask for understanding, solidarity, empathy and support at such a delicate an extraordinary moment.”
All three clubs had their weekend matches in the fifth round of the Brazilian league suspended. Internacional is in 9th position with seven points, three behind leader Athletico Paranaense.
These 15 AP photos capturing migrants' struggle were honored with a Pulitzer Prize
14 killed, 37 injured in passenger bus crash in north China
China moves to make financing easier for small businesses
16 black bear cubs rescued in Lao capital
A US company is fined $650,000 for illegally hiring children to clean meat processing plants
Russia detains 3 more suspects involved in Moscow terror attack
14 killed, 37 injured in passenger bus crash in north China
China to launch construction, expansion of major cultural facilities
Trump hush money trial: Prosecutors move deeper into ex
Crosby scores 42nd goal, Penguins keep playoff hopes alive with 4
Stars and DeBoer moving on after ousting Cup champ Vegas in tight 7
Exhibiting how dragon got integrated into Tibetan culture