Football’s most hated rule could be about to change forever
FIFA reopens the offside debate
Football’s lawmakers are once again scrutinising the offside rule, a regulation that has long divided players, coaches and supporters. The renewed discussion comes amid ongoing criticism of marginal decisions and lengthy video reviews that have increasingly shaped top level matches.
According to remarks made by FIFA president Gianni Infantino at the World Sports Summit, officials are assessing whether changes to the laws of the game could make football more fluid and attack minded.
“We continue to look at the laws of the game. How can we make the game more offensive, more attractive?” Infantino said.
Daylight rule enters the conversation
One of the ideas now being explored is known informally as the daylight principle. Under this concept, an attacking player would only be penalised if they are clearly ahead of the last defender, rather than level.
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In practical terms, this would mean that tight decisions based on marginal body parts could be reduced. If part of the attacker that can legally score remains in line with or behind the defender, play would continue.
The discussion reflects frustration that current interpretations, especially with VAR, often hinge on centimetres rather than clear advantage.
Offside has never been fixed in stone
Infantino also pointed out that the offside law has changed repeatedly throughout football’s history, adapting to different eras and styles of play.
“We look at the offside rule, for example, which has evolved over the years. The attacker had to be behind the defender, in line with the defender… Maybe in the future, the attacker will be in front,” he said.
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Any adjustment would require approval from the International Football Association Board, the body responsible for setting and amending football’s laws.
Why the offside debate keeps returning
The latest comments have reignited familiar arguments across the football world. Supporters of reform believe a clearer offside threshold would encourage attacking play and reduce stoppages. Opponents warn that even a daylight rule could introduce new grey areas and unintended consequences.
For now, FIFA has stressed that discussions remain exploratory, with no formal proposal submitted. Still, the fact that offside is once again under review suggests that one of football’s most controversial rules is far from settled.
Sources: World Sports Summit remarks, FIFA statements
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