2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil generated various controversies , including demonstrations , some of which took place even before the tournament started . Most centred on officiating , with referees coming under criticism for their performances . Furthermore , there were various issues with safety , including eight deaths of workers and a fire during construction , breaches into stadiums , an unstable makeshift staircase at the Maracanã Stadium , a monorail collapse , and the collapse of an unfinished overpass in Belo Horizonte . The most notable disciplinary case was that of Uruguayan striker Luis Suárez , who was disciplined after biting an Italian player , defender Giorgio Chiellini , during a game
collapse of an unfinished overpass
Belo Horizonte overpass collapse
List of 2014 FIFA World Cup controversies