The world motorsport governing body (FIA) has reassured that the 2024 Prize Gala in Rwanda will proceed in December as government steps up efforts to fight the outbreak of the Marburg virus.

Kigali will for the first time host the annual celebratory event on December 13, where FIA will present awards for 2024 winners and commemorate its 120th anniversary.

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The gala is expected to attract high profile figures in world’s motorsport racing, with attendance being non-negotiable for this season’s champions as per Formula 1’s Sporting Regulations which mandate that the top three drivers and the winning constructor must attend the annual FIA Prize Giving ceremony.

Allaying concerns over potential logistical challenges due to the Marburg virus disease in Rwanda, the FIA confirmed that the plans for the Gala are currently unchanged and reassured that it remains in contact with government agencies to monitor the situation.

"We are monitoring the situation closely in collaboration with the Ministry of Health in Rwanda. At present, we are proceeding as planned,” an FIA spokesperson told motorsport.com

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As of Thursday, 58 confirmed cases, 13 deaths have been reported, and 12 recovered. Many of the infected individuals are healthcare workers. Rwanda is responding aggressively by increasing contact tracing, expanding testing efforts, and deploying experimental vaccines and treatments in clinical trials.

To prevent the international spread of the disease, passengers leaving Rwanda are now required to complete a screening questionnaire to disclose any symptoms.

Those who have been in contact with a confirmed case must undergo quarantine for at least 21 days or until they are free of symptoms.