China's Figure Skaters Under Investigation After Holding Toy Missile during Event
The International Skating Union are conducting an investigation following a pair of Chinese ice dancers appeared holding an object resembling a replica weapon at 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” zone on Saturday.
The DF-61 is a recently introduced Chinese-made ground-launched long-range weapon capable of carrying nuclear weapons, which was displayed at a military parade last month.
“The ISU is aware that an inappropriate soft toy seems to have been one of the objects tossed onto the ice by spectators following a performance during the competition,” the ISU commented via a release.
The item was then handled by the skaters who had just performed. The ISU regrets the incident and will investigate further.”
The duo finished eighth out of ten teams in the ice dance event, with the victory going to the American pair of the United States.
