Franchise Notes: Vettel Apologizes For Tirade At Mexico GP, Receives No Punishment

Ferrari driver Sebastian Vettel "will not be punished for his expletive-laden outburst at the Mexican Grand Prix." FIA President Jean Todt decided "on an exceptional basis" not to take disciplinary action against the German. Incensed by the driving of Red Bull's Max Verstappen, Vettel lashed out at FIA F1 Race Dir Charlie Whiting. Vettel went to see Whiting immediately after the race "to apologise and has now written to both Todt and Whiting expressing his regret" (BBC, 11/2).

Scottish Premiership side Rangers said that midfielder Joey Barton "will return to full-time training" following a club-imposed suspension. The 34-year-old "has been absent from the club since a training-ground row" after the 5-1 loss at Celtic on Sept. 10. Barton, who joined from Burnley in May, has repeatedly said that "he wants to return and fight for his place" (BBC, 11/2).