Trash Talk Leads to Apology from Reporter Covering USMNT

Abigail Velez, a reporter for ABC7 Los Angeles, found herself in a bit of controversy after covering a US Men’s National Team (USMNT) watch party in Long Beach, California. Her playful remarks regarding the team’s next opponent sparked unexpected reactions.

During her wrap-up following the USA’s loss to Turkey, Velez looked ahead to the upcoming match against Bosnia and Herzegovina. She jokingly commented, “The next round, Team USA will play Bosnia next Wednesday and one thing about Bosnia, I could not point out where it is on a map.” She continued with a light-hearted spirit saying, “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. That’s next Wednesday. Get prepared, Bosnia, because you don’t want it like that, but you’re gonna get it. That’s next Wednesday.”

The comments, clearly intended as harmless banter, did not go unnoticed. Critics surfaced including the Bosnian national soccer team itself. They tweeted a response, “My goodness, the stereotypes write themselves……”, referencing Velez’s remarks. This tweet has since garnered over 10 million views.

Faced with backlash, Velez issued an apology. “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 stated.

She further acknowledged the essence of the World Cup, noting, “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.”

While some found the exchange humorous, others took issue with the comments, prompting Velez’s public apology.