China's Ice Dancers Face Probe After Holding Prop Weapon at Event
The International Skating Union are conducting an investigation following two Chinese ice dancers were seen holding an object resembling a toy ballistic missile during an international skating competition.
Television footage showed the skaters waiting with a large toy in the form of a rocket marked “DF-61” while waiting for their scores in the “kiss and cry” zone on Saturday.
This model represents a new Chinese-made ground-launched intercontinental ballistic missile designed for carrying nuclear weapons, which was unveiled at a military parade last month.
“The ISU is aware of an unsuitable plush item appears to have been among those thrown on to the ice by audience members after a performance at the ISU Figure Skating Grand Prix Cup of China event,” the ISU stated via a release.
“The soft toy was subsequently handled by the athletes who had just performed. We regrets the incident and will investigate further.”
The duo placed eighth of 10 pairs during the ice dancing competition, which was won by Madison Chock and Evan Bates of the United States.
