Fire destroys Madrid stadium

A fire officer surveys the scene of the blaze

MADRID, Spain -- Fire has devastated an indoor sports arena in central Madrid.

Clouds of smoke from the huge blaze on Thursday could be seen several kilometres away, a fire service spokesman said.

The metal roof of the Palacio de Deportes, in one of the city's main shopping districts, collapsed and two people needed treatment for smoke inhalation.

The musical "Riverdance" had been due to open on Thursday night and preparations were being made for the opening.

The fire was believed to have been caused by a welding torch, said Mayor Jose Maria Alvarez de Manzano.

The complex has hosted important sports events and concerts by well-known pop stars.

In 1982, thousands gathered in it to see Pope John Paul II.

The injured, a firefighter and a workman, were treated and released, police said.