### FIA Prize Gala in Rwanda to Proceed Despite Marburg Virus Crisis

The FIA has confirmed that its annual Prize Gala event in Rwanda will proceed as planned this December, despite an outbreak of the Marburg virus in the country and advice from the World Health Organization (WHO) against travel. Scheduled for 13 December in Kigali, the gala is an essential occasion for the FIA, marking its 120th anniversary and recognizing this year's championship winners.

According to Article 6.9 of the F1 Sporting Regulations, it is mandatory for the top finishers in the championship to attend, specifically the first-place constructor's representative and the top three drivers. This has added extra complexity to this year's event, as the Marburg virus outbreak presents significant logistical challenges.

Rwanda's Ministry of Health announced the country's first confirmed cases of the Marburg virus late last month. As of 8 October, there are 58 confirmed cases and 13 deaths recorded, marking one of the most substantial outbreaks of the virus to date. In response, the Rwandan government is collaborating with the WHO to control the situation.

The WHO currently assesses the risk from the outbreak as very high nationally, high regionally, and low globally. Despite ongoing investigations to fully gauge the scope of the outbreak, the WHO has advised against any travel or trade restrictions with Rwanda. The UK Foreign Office has also suggested avoiding close contact with symptomatic individuals, although Rwanda's primary tourist spots are still operational.

The FIA is maintaining close communication with Rwandan health authorities and continues to monitor the situation. A spokesperson from the FIA stated, "We are monitoring the situation closely in collaboration with the Ministry of Health in Rwanda. At present, we are proceeding as planned."

Notably, the Marburg virus, which bears similarities to Ebola, can cause severe hemorrhagic fever with a fatality rate of up to 88 percent. There is no current treatment, but health workers in Rwanda are being administered a trial vaccine. Measures have also been implemented at Rwandan airports, including health screenings and mandatory quarantines for anyone exposed to confirmed cases.

Max Verstappen, the reigning FIA Formula One World Champion, along with other top competitors and figures from the motor racing world are expected to attend the gala. The event will serve as a celebratory conclusion to the racing year, despite the backdrop of a serious viral outbreak.