Chinese Figure Skaters Under Investigation After Holding Prop Weapon at Event
The International Skating Union have launched a formal inquiry after a pair of Chinese ice dancers appeared holding an object resembling a toy ballistic missile during a grand prix figure skating event.
Television footage captured the skaters sitting with a large toy in the form of a rocket labeled “DF-61” while waiting for their scores in the “kiss and cry” area during the event.
The DF-61 is a new Chinese-made land-based intercontinental ballistic missile designed for transporting atomic warheads, that had been displayed at a military parade last month.
“The ISU is aware that an inappropriate plush item appears to have been among those thrown on to the ice by spectators following a routine at the ISU Figure Skating Grand Prix Cup of China event,” the ISU commented in an emailed statement.
“The soft toy was subsequently held by the skaters after their performance. We regrets this occurrence and will investigate further.”
The duo finished eighth of 10 pairs during the ice dancing competition, which was won by the American pair of the United States.
