Sport: Soccer Country: United States Category: Playoffs

US reporter apologizes for insensitive comments about Bosnia ahead of match

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 28, 2026, 12:12 PM

Last updated Jun 28, 2026

US reporter apologizes for insensitive comments about Bosnia ahead of match

Summary

Abigail Velez, a reporter for ABC7 in Los Angeles, has issued an apology following backlash over remarks about Bosnia-Herzegovina ahead of the United States' round of 32 match in the World Cup set for Wednesday. Velez made comments implying ignorance about the country, which drew criticism for being insensitive. She later acknowledged her comments as thoughtless and inappropriate, emphasizing that the World Cup should unite communities. Velez expressed her best wishes to all teams as they continue their World Cup journey.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Key Details

•Abigail Velez made controversial remarks about Bosnia-Herzegovina.
•Comments were broadcast ahead of a World Cup match on Wednesday.
•Velez apologized after receiving backlash for her statements.
•She emphasized the importance of unity in the World Cup.
•She wished all teams well in their tournament journey.

Latest Updates

12:12 PMYahoo Sports — US reporter regrets 'insensitive' comments on next opponent Bosnia

What they're saying

"
An American reporter has apologised for "insentive" remarks on the United States' next World Cup opponents Bosnia-Herzegovina after a major backlash. Abigail Velez said she had tried to have "a little fun" when she made the controversial statements for Los Angeles station ABC7 ahead of Wednesday's round of 32 match between the two teams.
— Yahoo Sports

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