Chinese Ice Dancers Under Investigation Following Holding Prop Weapon at Competition
The International Skating Union have launched a formal inquiry following two Chinese figure skaters appeared holding what looked like a replica weapon at a grand prix figure skating event.
Broadcast video captured Ren Junfei and Xing Jianing waiting alongside a large toy shaped like a rocket labeled “DF-61” as they awaited their scores in the “kiss and cry” area during the event.
The DF-61 represents a recently introduced China-produced ground-launched intercontinental ballistic missile capable of carrying nuclear weapons, which was unveiled during a national ceremony recently.
Officials is aware that an inappropriate plush item appears to have been among those tossed onto the ice by spectators following a performance during the competition,” the organization commented in an emailed statement.
The item was subsequently handled by the athletes who had just performed. The ISU regrets this occurrence and will look into it more deeply.”
Ren and Xing placed in eighth place of 10 pairs during the ice dancing competition, which was won by Madison Chock and Evan Bates of the United States.
