Chinese Ice Dancers Under Investigation After Holding Toy Missile at Competition

ISU officials have launched a formal inquiry after two Chinese ice dancers were seen with what looked like a replica weapon at an international skating competition.

Television footage showed Ren Junfei and Xing Jianing sitting with a large toy in the form of a rocket labeled “DF-61” while waiting for their scores at the “kiss and cry” area during the event.

The DF-61 represents a new Chinese-made land-based intercontinental ballistic missile capable of transporting atomic warheads, that had been displayed during a national ceremony last month.

Officials have acknowledged of an unsuitable plush item appears to have been one of the objects tossed onto the rink 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 held by the skaters after their performance. We regrets this occurrence and will investigate further.”

Ren and Xing finished in eighth place of 10 pairs in the ice dance event, with the victory going to Madison Chock and Evan Bates of the United States.

Kimberly Duke

A passionate interior designer with over a decade of experience in transforming homes with innovative and budget-friendly solutions.