Chinese Ice Dancers Under Investigation Following Displaying Prop Weapon at Event
ISU officials have launched a formal inquiry following two Chinese ice dancers were seen holding an object resembling a replica weapon at a grand prix figure skating event.
Broadcast video captured Ren Junfei and Xing Jianing sitting with a sizable prop shaped like a missile labeled “DF-61” as they awaited the judges' results in the “kiss and cry” zone during the event.
The DF-61 is a recently introduced Chinese-made ground-launched long-range weapon designed for transporting atomic warheads, that had been displayed at a military parade 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 during the competition,” the organization commented in an emailed statement.
“The soft toy was then held by the skaters after their performance. The ISU apologizes for the incident and will investigate further.”
Ren and Xing finished eighth of 10 pairs in the ice dance event, which was won by the American pair of the United States.
