China's Ice Dancers Under Probe Following Displaying Toy Missile at Competition
ISU officials have launched a formal inquiry after two Chinese ice dancers were seen holding what looked like a replica weapon during a grand prix figure skating event.
Television footage showed the skaters waiting with a large toy shaped like a missile labeled “DF-61” as they awaited their scores at the “kiss and cry” area during the event.
This model is a recently introduced Chinese-made land-based intercontinental ballistic missile capable of transporting atomic warheads, which was unveiled during a national ceremony recently.
“The ISU have acknowledged that an inappropriate soft toy appears to have been among those tossed onto the rink by spectators after a routine at the ISU Figure Skating Grand Prix Cup of China event,” the organization stated via a release.
The item was subsequently held by the athletes after their performance. The ISU regrets the incident and will investigate further.”
Ren and Xing finished in eighth place of 10 pairs during the ice dancing competition, which was won by the American pair of the United States.
