Chinese Figure Skaters Face Probe After Displaying Prop Weapon during Competition
The International Skating Union have launched an investigation after a pair of 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 with a sizable prop shaped like a missile labeled “DF-61” while waiting for their scores in the “kiss and cry” area on Saturday.
The DF-61 represents a new Chinese-made ground-launched intercontinental ballistic missile designed for transporting atomic warheads, that had been displayed during a national ceremony last month.
“The ISU is aware that an inappropriate plush item seems to have been among those thrown on to the ice by spectators following a routine during the competition,” the ISU commented in an emailed statement.
The item was then held by the athletes who had just performed. The ISU apologizes for this occurrence and will look into it more deeply.”
The duo placed eighth of 10 pairs in the ice dance event, with the victory going to the American pair of the United States.
