China's Ice Dancers Face Probe Following Holding Toy Missile during Event
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.
Broadcast video showed Ren Junfei and Xing Jianing waiting alongside a large toy shaped like a rocket marked “DF-61” as they awaited their scores at the “kiss and cry” area during the event.
This model represents a new China-produced land-based intercontinental ballistic missile designed for carrying nuclear weapons, that had been unveiled at a military parade recently.
Officials is aware that an inappropriate plush item appears to have been one of the objects thrown on to the rink by audience members after a performance at the ISU Figure Skating Grand Prix Cup of China event,” the organization commented via a release.
The item was subsequently handled by the athletes after their performance. We apologizes for the incident and will look into it more deeply.”
Ren and Xing finished in eighth place of 10 pairs during the ice dancing competition, which was won by Madison Chock and Evan Bates from the US.
