US reporter regrets 'insensitive' comments on next opponent Bosnia

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.

“One thing about Bosnia, I could not point out where it is on a map,” Velez said on air.

“I don’t know the first thing about Bosnia, and I don’t wanna know. That’s because Team USA, we’re back, we’re better than ever. That’s next Wednesday.

“Get prepared, Bosnia, because you don’t want it. You don’t want it like that. But you’re gonna get it.”

The backlash followed swiftly and Velez issued an apology on Sunday.

“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,” she said.

“I apologise to the people of Bosnia and the Bosnian football team.

“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,” she said.