That’s quite a souvenir – giant sign claiming Grêmio are world champions, which stood atop the stadium for the last 30 years. Soon the sign will be placed at the new stadium, adding more soul to it, while the old Olimpico Monumental awaits demolition.

On Monday Grêmio demounted the giant writing “Campeão do Mundo” from the top of Estádio Olímpico Monumental. The light blue sign was installed 30 years back, after the club’s triumph in the global Intercontinental Cup of 1983.

For the next three weeks the sign will be undergoing restoration works. When revived it will be transported northbound, to Arena do Grêmio. The move is hoped to improve the new stadium’s charm.

This symbolic operation marked the start of the old stadium’s evacuation. Similarly, the floodlight masts are to be transferred to a different location. Demolition works are expected to begin in October, though no precise date has been set yet. It is thought that a Sunday will be chosen due to limited interference with traffic.

Photo: Lucas Uebel, Gremio Oficial

Photo: Lucas Uebel, Gremio Oficial

Photo: Lucas Uebel, Gremio Oficial

Photo: Lucas Uebel, Gremio Oficial