Chinese Ice Dancers Under Probe Following Displaying Toy Missile during Competition
The International Skating Union are conducting an investigation following a pair of Chinese ice dancers were seen with an object resembling a replica weapon at a grand prix figure skating event.
Broadcast footage captured Ren Junfei and Xing Jianing waiting with a large toy shaped like a missile labeled “DF-61” as they awaited the judges' results in the “kiss and cry” area on Saturday.
This model represents a new Chinese-made ground-launched intercontinental ballistic missile designed for carrying nuclear weapons, that had been unveiled at a military parade last month.
“The ISU have acknowledged that an inappropriate plush item appears to have been among those thrown on to the ice by audience members after a routine during the competition,” the ISU commented in an emailed statement.
The item was then held by the athletes after their performance. The ISU regrets this occurrence and will look into it more deeply.”
Ren and Xing finished eighth out of ten teams in the ice dance event, which was won by the American pair of the United States.
