Carolina Panthers owner David Tepper has been fined $300,000 (£237,290) for “unacceptable conduct” after throwing a drink at Jacksonville Jaguars fans.

The incident occurred during the Panthers’ 26-0 defeat in Jacksonville – their 14th loss in 16 games.

“I am deeply passionate about this team and regret my behaviour on Sunday,” the 66-year-old said.

“I should have let NFL stadium security handle any issues that arose. I respect the NFL’s code of conduct and accept the league’s discipline for my behaviour.”

In announcing Tepper’s punishment, the NFL said in a statement: “All NFL personnel are expected to conduct themselves at all times in ways that respect our fans and favourably reflect on their team and the NFL.”

Tepper replaced Jerry Richardson as Panthers owner in 2018.

The Panthers’ record of two wins and 14 defeats is the worst in the league heading into the final week of the regular season, with no other team winning fewer than four games or losing on more than 12 occasions.

But although the Panthers are guaranteed to end the season with the worst record, they will not have the top pick in the next NFL Draft after they traded that selection away last year to sign quarterback Bryce Young.