Chinese Ice Dancers Face Investigation After Holding Toy Missile at Competition

ISU officials have launched an investigation after two Chinese ice dancers were seen with what looked like a toy ballistic missile during a grand prix figure skating event.

Broadcast video captured Ren Junfei and Xing Jianing waiting with a sizable prop in the form of a missile marked “DF-61” while waiting for their scores at the “kiss and cry” area during the event.

This model is a new 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 of an unsuitable plush item seems to have been among those tossed onto the ice by spectators after a routine during the competition,” the ISU stated in an emailed statement.

The item was then held by the athletes who had just performed. The ISU apologizes for the incident and will investigate further.”

The duo placed eighth out of ten teams during the ice dancing competition, with the victory going to Madison Chock and Evan Bates from the US.