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.
Arsenal needs a favor from Tottenham in the title race. Current form suggests it won't happen
Countdown clock for Paris Olympics hits 100
China axes hundreds of TV dramas depicting family tensions — Radio Free Asia
Tara VanDerveer's longtime assistant Kate Paye takes over as new Stanford coach
Russia defends veto of UN resolution to prohibit nukes in outer space
How the disappearance of two Kansas moms led to 4 arrests in Oklahoma
Princess Martha Louise has pre
China axes hundreds of TV dramas depicting family tensions — Radio Free Asia
Double European weightlifting champion Pielieshenko killed in Ukraine war
China's software industry logs steady growth in Q1
The Dallas Stars can still score. They are now deeper and more balanced going into the NHL playoffs