US reporter apologizes to Bosnia after on-air World Cup comment sparks backlash

Velez addressed the controversy in a statement posted on social media, acknowledging that her attempt to bring humour into the World Cup coverage had gone too far.

“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,” Velez said.

“The World Cup is supposed to be about uniting communities around the world, and my comment didn't reflect that spirit,” she added.

The apology came after Velez, during a live appearance on ABC7 while previewing the round-of-32 clash between the United States and Bosnia and Herzegovina, said she knew “almost nothing” about Bosnia and Herzegovina and would not be able to point it out on a map.

She also ended the segment with a provocative message directed at the Bosnian team.

A clip of the broadcast quickly spread across social media, drawing sharp reactions from users who described the remarks as unprofessional, unnecessary and insulting towards a country celebrating a historic achievement by reaching the knockout stage of the World Cup.

Bosnia and Herzegovina’s meeting with the United States has attracted major attention among fans in both countries, with the national team’s World Cup run continuing to generate excitement at home and among the Bosnian diaspora.