Vettel apologises to Todt in letter

Ferrari driver Vettel was furious Red Bull's Max Verstappen was not forced to give up his third-place after locking up into Turn 1 late in the race when attacked by Vettel, forcing him to take to the grass and cut across Turn 2.

Vettel then turned the air blue as he first slated Verstappen before turning on FIA Formula 1 director Charlie Whiting for not taking action against the teenager.

Vettel claimed his volatile reaction was as a consequence of his "emotions and adrenaline", although he could not understand why such a fuss was being made of his comments.

The four-time champion spoke to Whiting immediately after the race to offer an apology, but he has also taken the additional step of writing to Todt.

Vettel penned his letter on Monday, explaining the circumstances, but offering no excuses and in turn his sincere apologies for his profanity.

The FIA is understood to be unofficially looking into the matter, with Vettel expected to receive nothing more than a slap on the wrist and warned over his future conduct.