Former F1 chief Ecclestone detained in Portugal over undeclared shotgun

LISBON — Bernie Ecclestone, the former chief executive of Formula One, was detained at a Portuguese airport on Monday after police discovered a shotgun on his private aircraft that lacked proper documentation for entry into the country.

The 93-year-old was stopped during a routine inspection at the airport following his arrival, according to local authorities. Officials said the firearm had been brought into Portugal without the requisite permits or declarations.

Ecclestone, who steered Formula One for nearly four decades before stepping down in 2017, was held for questioning by Portuguese police. The circumstances surrounding the presence of the weapon on his jet were being investigated at the time.

The incident highlighted the stringent regulations governing the transport of firearms across international borders, particularly via private aircraft. Portugal maintains strict weapons control laws, and the undeclared importation of firearms carries serious legal consequences.

Ecclestone's detention marked an unusual development for the businessman, who has maintained a relatively low public profile since his departure from Formula One, though he has continued involvement in various commercial ventures.