FIFA president Sepp Blatter says he is "deeply saddened" by the death of three workers stadium workers in Brazil today.

The collapse of a crane into the arena in Sao Paulo resulted in the tragic death of three workers as they attempted to complete work on the stadium before the start of next year's World Cup.

The collapse also appeared to cause damage to the stadium.

Mr Blatter says that his "heartfelt condolences are with the families" of the victims.

The Corinthians arena is set to stage the opening game of next summer's tournament as well as one of the semi-finals.

Fire service: 3 believed dead, others trapped as crane collapses on World Cup stadium in Sao Paulo, Brazil: pic.twitter.com/TkvIlHuejS

— ABC News (@ABC) November 27, 2013