China's Figure Skaters Face Investigation After Displaying Prop Weapon at Competition
The International Skating Union have launched an investigation following a pair of Chinese ice dancers were seen with what looked like a toy ballistic missile at a grand prix figure skating event.
Television footage showed the skaters sitting alongside a large toy in the form of a missile marked “DF-61” while waiting for the judges' results at the “kiss and cry” zone on Saturday.
This model represents a recently introduced Chinese-made ground-launched intercontinental ballistic missile capable of transporting atomic warheads, which was displayed at a military parade last month.
“The ISU is aware that an inappropriate plush item seems to have been one of the objects thrown on to the rink by spectators following a performance at the ISU Figure Skating Grand Prix Cup of China event,” the organization stated in an emailed statement.
“The soft toy was then held by the athletes after their performance. The ISU regrets the incident and will investigate further.”
The duo placed eighth out of ten teams during the ice dancing competition, which was won by Madison Chock and Evan Bates of the United States.
