FIFA has strengthened rules and regulations for the 2002 World Cup, specifically three rules that have been given emphasis; simulation, holding and wasting time; it was reported Friday, the opening day of the tournament. The first change is to prevent players from turning play in their favor by making exaggerated scenes when their opponent's tackle them, and starting from this tournament, players will also be penalized for holding their rivals and wasting time, which is intentionally delaying the game to kill time.

Referees will now hand out yellow and red cards in the case of any suspicious play without giving prior warning. These rules already apply within the penalty area, but the difference is that from this World Cup it applies over the entire field. Another tightened measure is doping controls, with blood doping checks to be carried out for the first time. FIFA introduced doping controls in 1966 to make sure the results of the matches are a fair reflection of the strength of the contenders.

There are also rules for spectators; long umbrellas, plastic bottles and frozen food won't be allowed inside the stadiums. And while officials say it might be a little inconvenient, it is only for a short period of time and the World Cup has come after years of hard work.

Though winning is important, with these tougher regulations, participants and spectators alike will need to respect fair play and sportsmanship for the sake of a successful World Cup.

(Arirang TV)