The Offside Rule in Football, Explained Simply

Few laws spark as much debate as offside. This guide breaks the law into small parts so that it becomes easier to follow on the pitch and on the screen.

Offside position is not an offence

Being in an offside position is not punishable by itself. A player is in an offside position if any part of the head, body or feet is nearer to the opponents’ goal line than both the ball and the second-last opponent. The hands and arms are not counted. A player level with the second-last opponent or the ball is onside.

When it becomes an offence

A player in an offside position is penalised only if, at the moment a teammate plays or touches the ball, they become involved in active play by:

• interfering with play by touching the ball;
• interfering with an opponent, for example by blocking their line of vision or challenging for the ball; or
• gaining an advantage by playing a ball that rebounds from the goalpost, crossbar or an opponent.

Where offside does not apply

There is no offside offence when a player receives the ball directly from a goal kick, a throw-in or a corner kick. A player also cannot be offside in their own half of the pitch.

A short history

Offside has been part of football since the earliest codified rules in the nineteenth century. A major change came in 1925, when the number of opponents required between the attacker and the goal line was reduced from three to two, which encouraged more attacking play.

Technology and offside

Video assistant referees and, in some competitions, semi-automated offside systems now help officials judge close calls. These tools track limb positions and the moment the ball is played. Different competitions adopt technology at different times, so the support available varies by tournament.

A practical tip for watching

Focus on two moments: when the pass is played, and who is nearest the goal line at that instant. What happens afterwards does not change the player’s position at the moment of the pass.

The Laws of the Game are maintained by the International Football Association Board and are updated periodically, so check the latest edition for the authoritative text.