ABC Reporter Apologizes for Comment on Bosnia Ahead of Match

Abigail Velez, a reporter for ABC7 Los Angeles, covered a US Men’s National Team watch party in Long Beach, California. During her coverage, she commented on the USA’s next opponent, Bosnia and Herzegovina, following their loss to Turkey.

Her remarks, made in a lighthearted manner, included stating, “I could not point out where it is on a map.” Velez added, “I don’t know the first thing about Bosnia and I don’t want to know because Team USA, we’re back, we’re better than ever.” She concluded with a playful warning for Bosnia, “Get prepared, Bosnia, because you don’t want it like that, but you’re gonna get it.”

Although her comments were made in the context of an upcoming World Cup match, they provoked some reactions. The Bosnian national soccer team tweeted in response, “My goodness, the stereotypes write themselves……” Their tweet, which included Velez’s comments, attracted over 10 million views.

Velez later issued an apology, stating, “In a poor effort to have a little fun with World Cup competition, I took it too far and made a thoughtless comment on air that was insensitive and inappropriate. I apologize to the people of Bosnia and the Bosnian Football team.”

She further remarked, “The World Cup is supposed to be about uniting communities around the world, and my comment didn’t reflect that spirit. Wishing all the teams the very best as they continue their World Cup journey.”

Sean Joseph, writing for OutKick, noted the incident, highlighting the reactions and debates around it.