Chinese Ice Dancers Face Investigation After Displaying Prop Weapon at Competition
The International Skating Union are conducting a formal inquiry following a pair of Chinese ice dancers appeared with what looked like a replica weapon at a grand prix figure skating event.
Television footage captured Ren Junfei and Xing Jianing sitting alongside a large toy shaped like a rocket marked “DF-61” while waiting for the judges' results in the “kiss and cry” zone on Saturday.
The DF-61 represents a new Chinese-made ground-launched intercontinental ballistic missile capable of carrying nuclear weapons, that had been displayed at a military parade recently.
“The ISU is aware that an inappropriate plush item seems to have been among those tossed onto the ice by audience members after a routine during the competition,” the ISU commented via a release.
“The soft toy was subsequently held by the athletes after their performance. We regrets this occurrence and will investigate further.”
The duo finished eighth of 10 pairs during the ice dancing competition, which was won by the American pair of the United States.
