Although Curitiba is one of 12 Brazilian cities lined up to host matches in the 2014 FIFA World Cup (the world’s second-biggest sporting event after the Olympics), the city is winning plaudits for doing things in its own inimitable style.

Infrastructure projects for prestige events are seldom delivered on budget and on schedule. But this frugal city, which has so much experience in executing grand plans on a shoestring, aims to change all that.

The upgrade of Curitiba’s 42,000-seat Arena da Baixada, home stadium of local team Atlético Paranaense, required the lowest budget of any of the venues. Additions will include a retractable roof, solar panels to generate enough electricity to sustain the stadium and parts of its neighborhood, and a rainwater collection system.

The secretary general of FIFA, Jerome Valcke, has suggested that Brazil’s preparations for the event require “a kick up the backside.” Curitiba was the notable exemption from his criticism. He believes the city will be ready to host the world next year.

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