Chinese Ice Dancers Face Probe After Holding Prop Weapon at Competition
ISU officials are conducting a formal inquiry after two Chinese ice dancers appeared holding what looked like a toy ballistic missile at a grand prix figure skating event.
Broadcast video showed the skaters sitting with a large toy in the form of a rocket labeled “DF-61” while waiting for the judges' results at the “kiss and cry” zone during the event.
This model represents a new Chinese-made ground-launched long-range weapon designed for transporting atomic warheads, that had been displayed at a military parade last month.
Officials is aware that an inappropriate plush item seems to have been among those thrown on to the rink by spectators after a routine during the competition,” the ISU stated in an emailed statement.
“The soft toy was then held by the skaters who had just performed. The ISU regrets this occurrence and will look into it more deeply.”
The duo finished eighth of 10 pairs in the ice dance event, which was won by Madison Chock and Evan Bates from the US.
