Rio ready to deliver a great Games : IOC

The 2016 Olympics threatens to be an absolute nightmare for visitors, athletes, and organizers alike with a host of problems looming in the horizon – Zika, pollution, and minor civil unrest.

But Rio 2016 president Carlos Nuzman exuded confidence about the city's preparedness and said: "We are obviously very proud that we are ready to welcome the world and we can also see the transformation of Rio everywhere we go. A lot of work lies ahead of us but we have plenty of energy. We will deliver a great Games," reported IANS.

Also read - Why this might turn out to be the worst Olympics ever

Nawal El Moutawakel, chairwoman of the IOC's Rio 2016 coordination commission, also appeared impressed with the city's preparations for the quarternary carnival, Xinhua news agency reported. She said, "Brazilians are very warm and hospitable people who know how to welcome guests and how to live life to the fullest," in a statement, adding, "Spectators visiting Rio this August will be able to fully experience that spirit."

Moutawakel further added, "The Olympians of 2016 can look forward to living in an outstanding Olympic Village and competing in absolutely stunning venues.

From views of the Corcovado and Sugarloaf mountain to the new state-of-the-art facilities in Barra or Deodoro and the iconic Maracana Stadium and Copacabana beach, I cannot imagine more spectacular backdrops for the world's top sportsmen and women to showcase their talents to a watching world.

"Brazilians have transformed the city through a legacy vision that they have made a reality... by creating a legacy that will benefit local citizens and the whole country for decades," read the statement.