China's Ice Dancers Under Probe Following Holding Toy Missile at Competition
The International Skating Union are conducting an investigation following two Chinese figure skaters appeared with an object resembling a replica weapon during a grand prix figure skating event.
Television video captured the skaters waiting with a sizable prop shaped like a rocket labeled “DF-61” while waiting for their scores at the “kiss and cry” zone on Saturday.
This model represents a new China-produced ground-launched intercontinental ballistic missile designed for transporting atomic warheads, that had been displayed at a military parade last month.
“The ISU is aware of an unsuitable plush item appears to have been among those tossed onto the ice by audience members after a routine during the competition,” the organization stated in an emailed statement.
The item was subsequently held by the athletes after their performance. We regrets the incident and will look into it more deeply.”
Ren and Xing finished eighth of 10 pairs in the ice dance event, which was won by the American pair from the US.
