Former Formula One chief Bernie Ecclestone was questioned by police after he arrived at a Portuguese airport with a shotgun that he intended to use in a clay pigeon competition. The 95‑year‑old said he had to surrender the firearm because he did not have the required paperwork, but he denied that he was arrested.
Ecclestone landed in Cascais, about 20 miles from Lisbon, having flown in from Switzerland. He explained that he had learned of the competition only a few days earlier when his wife, Fabiana, met someone who suggested he join. Since he already owned imported guns in Switzerland for shooting, he brought the shotgun with him.
At customs, Ecclestone was asked if he had anything to declare. He said he had only personal items. When police officers approached, they requested information about the gun and a “blue book” – a passport‑like document for firearms. Ecclestone admitted he was unaware of such a requirement. The officers insisted the gun needed to be surrendered, and customs officials offered to process a temporary import and duty payment.
The former F1 executive said the police were helpful and that he was not arrested. He added that the officers were trying to prevent him from proceeding without the proper documentation. Ecclestone’s statement comes after a prior incident in 2022 when he was stopped in São Paulo with a handgun, paid a fine, and had the weapon confiscated.
The event highlights the strict regulations governing the transport of firearms into Portugal and the importance of complying with local import requirements.
