Who Is Abigail Velez Reporter Faces Backlash Over Bosnia Comments Before USMNT Match

Abigail Velez became the center of controversy during the pregame broadcast of the United States versus Bosnia and Herzegovina Round of 16 match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The reporter stated she could not locate Bosnia on a map and admitted knowing almost nothing about the country, adding she had no interest in learning more.

Her remarks sparked widespread criticism both in the United States and abroad. Velez, who was previously unknown to most international soccer fans, quickly became a trending topic on social media following the broadcast.