FIFA considers the ‘daylight’ offside rule after President Gianni Infantino voiced support for a proposal from Arsène Wenger. The idea would change how offside calls work, aiming to favour attackers and cut down on tight VAR decisions.
Infantino spoke about it at the World Sports Summit in Dubai on December 29, 2025. He said the current rule often leads to millimetre calls that frustrate fans. Under the new approach, an attacker would only be offside if their whole body is ahead of the last defender. If any part that can score a goal is level, play continues.
Wenger, now FIFA’s chief of global football development, first suggested the idea back in 2020. He calls it a way to make games more open and exciting. Trials in youth leagues in Italy and Sweden showed more goals and fewer stops for reviews.
The International Football Association Board, or IFAB, handles rule changes. They plan to discuss it at a meeting in London on January 20, 2026.
A bigger assembly follows in Wales in February. If approved, it could start in the 2026-27 season, ahead of the World Cup.
Fans react in different ways. Many like the chance for more goals and less drama over tiny margins. VAR lines for offsides have caused complaints in leagues like the Premier League. This change might simplify things for referees too.
But some worry about balance. Defenders might drop deeper to avoid risks. Teams could park the bus more. Others say close calls won’t fully disappear.
Infantino tied it to broader efforts. FIFA tests other ideas in 2025 tournaments, like referee body cameras or quicker goalkeeper rules. The goal is smoother, more attacking football.
Wenger explained it simply. Level means onside, even if other body parts are ahead. No more nose- or toe-deciding games.
Data from trials backs the push. Goals went up. Flow improved. No major issues reported.
Clubs and coaches watch closely. Tactics could shift. High lines become riskier.
For now, it’s at the discussion stage. IFAB decides. They include reps from England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, and FIFA.
Football evolves. Offside changed big in 1925 and 1990 to boost scoring. This could be next. Supporters hope for entertainment. Critics want caution. Talks continue into 2026.
The proposal gains traction. Infantino’s words carry weight. Wenger’s experience adds credibility.
As the World Cup nears, rules matter. Fans want thrilling matches. This idea aims for that. Change comes slowly in football. But momentum builds here. More news is expected after meetings.
