John Terry has apologised for racially insulting Anton Ferdinand and will not appeal his Football Association charge.
The Chelsea captain was suspended for four matches and fined £220,000 by English football's governing body, but despite pleading his innocence has decided not to pursue the matter.
However in his statement Terry did not air his contrition directly to Ferdinand.
"I want to apologise to everyone for the language I used in the game against Queens Park Rangers last October," the 31-year-old said.
"My response was below the level expected by Chelsea FC, and by me, and it will not happen again.
"With the benefit of hindsight my language was not an appropriate reaction to the situation. I accept that the language I used is not acceptable on the football field or indeed in any walk of life.
"I will continue to do my part in assisting the club to remove all types of discriminatory behaviour from football."
Terry will miss Chelsea's Premier League fixtures away to Tottenham Hotspur and Swansea City, as well as the back-to-back league and Capital One Cup matches at home to Manchester United.
By accepting his punishment, Terry will not come face-to-face with Anton's brother Rio Ferdinand when the Blues face United.
Terry has still not come face-to-face with Rio on the pitch since his altercation with Anton
Ferdinand refused to take calls from his one-time international colleague after the incident and Terry was injured when United visited west London in the Premier League back in February, four months after he was accused of racially abusing Anton Ferdinand.
Chelsea meanwhile will also take action against their player, but refused to reveal what action will be taken against him.
"The Board has conducted its own investigation into the matter, and considered the various issues involved. In accordance with our long-standing policy, that disciplinary action will remain confidential," the club statement read.