Chinese Ice Dancers Face Probe After Displaying Toy Missile during Event
The International Skating Union have launched an investigation after a pair of Chinese ice dancers appeared with an object resembling a toy ballistic missile during a grand prix figure skating event.
Broadcast video captured the skaters waiting alongside a large toy shaped like a missile labeled “DF-61” while waiting for the judges' results in the “kiss and cry” zone during the event.
This model is a new Chinese-made land-based long-range weapon designed for transporting atomic warheads, which was displayed during a national ceremony last month.
“The ISU is aware that an inappropriate plush item appears to have been among those tossed onto the ice by audience members following a routine at the ISU Figure Skating Grand Prix Cup of China event,” the organization commented in an emailed statement.
“The soft toy was subsequently handled by the skaters after their performance. The ISU regrets this occurrence and will investigate further.”
The duo finished in eighth place out of ten teams during the ice dancing competition, with the victory going to the American pair of the United States.
