The History of the Offside Rule

Category: The Beautiful Game

Even during the early years of soccer, the problem with players “goal hanging” was evident. Players would stand around the goal waiting for the right opportunity. In order to prevent this, the offside rule was born. Let’s take a look at the history of the offside rule.

The Offside Rule – 1863


The offside rule originated in 1863. A player was considered offside unless three players of the opposing side are in front of him (includes goalkeeper). So in the above diagram, the player with the ball is considered offside because only two players are in front of him.

The Offside Rule – 1925

The offside rule was changed in 1925. A player was considered offside unless two players of the opposing team are in front of him (includes goalkeeper). So in the above diagram, the player with the ball is NOT considered offside because two players are in front of him.

The Offside Rule – 1990

The offside rule was changed again in 1990. A player is onside if he is level with the second-to-last player of the opposing team (includes goalkeeper). So in the above diagram, the player with the ball is NOT considered offside because he is level with the second-to-last player.

Even though the rule has changed a couple times, many still have issues with the rule. Some say making an offside call is impossible and feel that FIFA should change the rule again. Only time will tell!