Intro:

New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft will not appeal the $1 million fine and loss of two draft choices the NFL penalised the team for its role in the use of deflated footballs in the AFC championship game.

Script:

SOUNDBITE: (English) Robert Kraft, Owner of the New England Patriots

"But believing in the strength of the partnership, and the 32 teams - we have concentrated the power of adjudication of problems in the office of the commissioner. And although I might disagree with what is decided, I do have respect for the commissioner and believe that he's doing what he perceives to be in the best interests of the full 32. So in that spirit, I don't want to continue the rhetoric that's gone on for the last four months. I'm going to accept, reluctantly, what he has given to us, and not continue this dialogue and rhetoric. And we won't appeal. Now, I know that a lot of Patriot fans are going to be disappointed in that decision. But I hope they trust my judgment and know that I really feel at this point in time that taking this off the agenda, this is the best thing for the New England Patriots, our fans and the NFL. And I hope you all can respect that. You know, I would normally take questions, but my desire is truly not to continue the rhetoric, and so I'm going to leave this discussion exactly here. Thank you very much."