Chinese Ice Dancers Under Probe Following Displaying Toy Missile during Competition

The International Skating Union have launched an investigation following two Chinese figure skaters were seen holding an object resembling a replica weapon at an international skating competition.

Broadcast video captured Ren Junfei and Xing Jianing waiting with a sizable prop in the form of a rocket labeled “DF-61” while waiting for the judges' results at the “kiss and cry” area during the event.

This model is a recently introduced Chinese-made land-based long-range weapon capable of carrying nuclear weapons, that had been displayed at a military parade last month.

Officials have acknowledged that an inappropriate plush item appears to have been among those tossed onto the ice by audience members after a routine during the competition,” the ISU stated in an emailed statement.

The item was subsequently held by the athletes who had just performed. The ISU apologizes for 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 from the US.