Former F1 chief Bernie Ecclestone, 95, was questioned in Portugal, stating the undocumented shotgun was for a clay pigeon shooting event.
Bernie Ecclestone, the 95-year-old former head of Formula 1, was stopped for questioning in Portugal on Monday after customs authorities discovered an undocumented shotgun in his possession. The incident occurred at Tires Aerodrome in Cascais, shortly after Ecclestone's private jet landed.
Authorities initiated a routine inspection of the aircraft and its passengers, during which the firearm was reportedly found. Following the discovery, Portuguese officials detained Ecclestone for questioning, where he claimed the gun was intended for a clay pigeon shooting competition.
The finding has initiated criminal proceedings against the F1 icon, with the firearm seized as part of standard procedure. The final outcome of the case remains uncertain, according to reporting by The Guardian - Formula 1.
The Incident Unfolds on Ecclestone's Private Jet
Upon his private jet's arrival at Tires Aerodrome, a standard inspection led to the discovery of the shotgun. When questioned by police, Ecclestone provided an explanation regarding the firearm.
Recounting the events, Ecclestone mentioned his interaction with customs officials, stating he had declared “nothing really, just all the usual personal things.” He was then approached by police who requested information about the gun he brought in. He told the Press Association, “The police were very helpful and doing all they could to stop us from having to do what we had to do.”
Ecclestone explained to the authorities that it was a shotgun, but he was unaware of a required "blue book," which serves as a firearm's passport. He claimed to have purchased the gun in England and legally imported it into Switzerland, where he also participates in clay pigeon shooting.
Ecclestone's Defense and Ongoing Legal Process
Ecclestone detailed that his wife, Fabiana, learned about a clay pigeon competition in Portugal and suggested he join. This prompted him to bring the gun from Switzerland for the event. He maintained that he had not intended to illegally import the firearm into the country.
Despite his explanation, the customs officer informed him that he needed to surrender the gun in Lisbon. He was told he could then inquire about importing it, pay the necessary duty, and apply for a temporary import permit. Under standard procedure, the firearm has been seized, and Ecclestone has been formally designated as a defendant in criminal proceedings. The exact legal repercussions are yet to be determined.
A History of Firearm Scrutiny for the F1 Legend
This is not the first instance where Bernie Ecclestone has faced scrutiny from authorities concerning firearms during air travel. In May 2022, the former F1 chief executive was arrested in Brazil for illegal possession of a gun.
That incident occurred when an X-ray of his luggage, as he prepared to board a private plane to Switzerland, revealed an undeclared LW Seecamp .32-calibre pistol. Ecclestone admitted ownership of the firearm but stated he was unaware it was in his possession. He was taken to a facility at Viracopos Airport in Campinas, where he posted bail before being released to continue his journey.
Ecclestone's F1 Legacy and Portuguese Connections
Bernie Ecclestone has been a pivotal figure in Formula 1 since the 1950s, evolving from a driver and businessman to a team owner and key negotiator of the sport's television rights. He was the most influential commercial and political figure in F1 for decades, instrumental in securing sponsorships and agreements globally, and is widely credited with transforming F1 into a global phenomenon.
His official involvement with F1 concluded in 2017 following Liberty Media's acquisition of the championship's commercial rights. Beyond this incident, Ecclestone and his wife, Fabiana Flosi, have other connections to Portugal, including a reported property purchase about 15 miles west of Lisbon, which was described as the country's largest private house sale at approximately £35 million.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened to Bernie Ecclestone in Portugal?
Bernie Ecclestone was questioned by Portuguese authorities on Monday after an undocumented shotgun was found on his private jet at Tires Aerodrome in Cascais.
Why did Bernie Ecclestone have a shotgun on his jet?
He stated the firearm was for a clay pigeon shooting competition he planned to attend in Portugal, having brought it from Switzerland where he legally acquired and imported it.
Has Bernie Ecclestone had previous issues with firearms while traveling?
Yes, in May 2022, he was arrested in Brazil for an undeclared .32-calibre pistol found in his luggage, for which he posted bail and claimed he was unaware of carrying it.
What is the current legal status of Bernie Ecclestone's case in Portugal?
The firearm has been seized, and Ecclestone has been formally made a defendant in criminal proceedings, with the outcome of the case currently unknown.
What is a 'blue book' for a gun that Ecclestone mentioned?
Ecclestone was asked for a "blue book" by Portuguese police, which they described as being like a passport for the gun, a document he claimed he had never heard of.