FIFA prepares major changes to the offside rule: the “Wenger Law” could be introduced as early as the 2026/27 season

One of the most radical changes in world football in recent decades could soon take place. FIFA, together with the International Football Association Board (IFAB), is actively discussing a reform of the offside rule known as the “Wenger Law.” The initiative was proposed by former Arsenal head coach Arsène Wenger, who currently serves as FIFA’s Chief of Global Football Development.

If approved, the change could influence the dynamics of major international tournaments, including World Cup matches, where offside decisions often determine the outcome of crucial games.

The essence of the proposed reform lies in a new interpretation of offside. Under the current rules, even a minimal advantage over a defender — literally a few millimeters — is considered offside. Under the new version, however, an offense would be called only if the attacking player is completely ahead of the last defender. Any overlap of body lines or goal-scoring body parts would therefore be interpreted in favor of the attacking team.

When the new rules could be introduced

Work on the initiative has been ongoing since 2020, and the project is expected to receive official status in the near future. On January 20 in London, the proposal will be presented at IFAB’s annual meeting, followed by discussions at the organization’s General Assembly in February, which will take place in Wales. According to RMC Sport, if the initiative is put to a vote, its chances of approval are considered very high.

If the “Wenger Law” is approved, its implementation is expected to begin with the next cycle of rule changes — approximately from the 2026/2027 season.

FIFA and Infantino’s position

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has already made it clear that the organization is open to reform. Speaking at the World Sports Summit in Dubai, he noted that the offside rule has evolved many times and could change again. According to Infantino, in the future an attacking player may need to be fully ahead of the defender to be considered offside, rather than level with them.

Trials have already taken place

It is worth noting that the new interpretation of offside has already been tested in practice. In 2023, the experiment was conducted at several youth tournaments in Italy and Sweden. According to sources, the trials produced positive results and convinced football officials of the initiative’s viability.

Arsène Wenger emphasized from the very beginning that his main goal is to make football more entertaining and fairer for attacking teams. In his view, offside should not be called as long as at least one goal-scoring body part remains in line with the defender.

The reform could significantly affect team tactics, refereeing, and the use of VAR, while also leading to an increase in goal-scoring opportunities. If approved, the “Wenger Law” would become one of the most significant changes to the Laws of the Game in the 21st century.