China's Figure Skaters Face Investigation Following Displaying Prop Weapon at Event
ISU officials have launched an investigation after a pair of Chinese ice dancers were seen with what looked like a replica weapon during an international skating competition.
Broadcast footage captured the skaters sitting with a sizable prop in the form of a missile labeled “DF-61” while waiting for their scores at the “kiss and cry” zone on Saturday.
This model represents a new Chinese-made land-based intercontinental ballistic missile capable of transporting atomic warheads, that had been unveiled at a military parade last month.
Officials have acknowledged 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 organization stated via a release.
“The soft toy was subsequently handled by the athletes who had just performed. We apologizes for this occurrence and will look into it more deeply.”
The duo placed eighth of 10 pairs in the ice dance event, with the victory going to the American pair of the United States.
