China's Ice Dancers Under Probe Following Displaying Toy Missile at Event
ISU officials have launched a formal inquiry following two Chinese ice dancers appeared with an object resembling a replica weapon during a grand prix figure skating event.
Broadcast video captured the skaters waiting alongside a large toy in the form of a rocket marked “DF-61” while waiting for their scores in the “kiss and cry” area on Saturday.
The DF-61 represents a recently introduced Chinese-made land-based long-range weapon capable of carrying nuclear weapons, that had been displayed during a national ceremony last month.
“The ISU is aware of an unsuitable soft toy appears to have been one of the objects tossed onto the rink by audience members after a routine during the competition,” the ISU commented via a release.
“The soft toy was then held by the athletes who had just performed. We regrets this occurrence and will investigate further.”
The duo finished in eighth place of 10 pairs during the ice dancing competition, with the victory going to the American pair of the United States.
