Chinese Figure Skaters Face Investigation Following Displaying Toy Missile at Event
ISU officials have launched an investigation after a pair of Chinese ice dancers were seen holding an object resembling a replica weapon during a grand prix figure skating event.
Television footage showed the skaters waiting with a sizable prop in the form of a rocket labeled “DF-61” while waiting for their scores at the “kiss and cry” area on Saturday.
This model represents a new China-produced ground-launched long-range weapon capable of transporting atomic warheads, that had been unveiled during a national ceremony 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 ISU commented in an emailed statement.
“The soft toy was then handled by the skaters who had just performed. The ISU regrets this occurrence and will look into it more deeply.”
The duo placed eighth of 10 pairs during the ice dancing competition, which was won by Madison Chock and Evan Bates from the US.
