Media: FIFA may change offside rule before the 2026 World Cup

FIFA may introduce changes to the offside rule ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

According to Mundo Deportivo, as reported by Report, former referee Eduardo Iturralde González spoke about the potential change.

The proposed rule is known as the “Wenger Law,” named after Arsène Wenger — former footballer and coach, and currently FIFA’s Chief of Global Football Development.

Under Wenger’s initiative, an offside would only be called if there is a clear gap between the attacker and the defender. If players are on the same line — even partially, such as the attacker’s heel being level with the defender’s foot — it would not be considered offside.

“The process is like this: at the end of October or in November, a panel of experts, consisting of 23 players and 11 referees, reviews the proposals. Interestingly, Wenger himself — the author of the initiative — chairs the committee. If the idea passes this stage, it goes to the annual meeting on January 20, and then to the general session held in late February or early March. 95% of proposals that reach that stage are usually approved,” said Iturralde.

It is reported that the new rule may be tested in 2026 — before the World Cup.