Olympic officials worried about preparations for 2016 Rio Games

Olympic officials have voiced their most strident concern yet over preparations for the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Games, which have suffered from numerous glitches and delays.

In a statement issued Friday, an IOC coordination commission warned organizers that “every second counts.”

“With just over two years to go until the Games open ... the Commission indicated that a constant, concerted and integrated effort is required for the successful delivery of the Games and its legacy,” the statement said.

This latest development comes amid continued difficulties with budgeting and construction. Still, Nawal El Moutawakel, the commission’s chair, suggested that Rio officials still have a chance to stage an exciting Olympics.

The president of the Rio organizing committee, Carlos Arthur Nuzman, responded: “We enter this crucial phase of our journey without a minute to lose.”