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Wenger’s Daylight Offside Trial Set for Canadian Premier League

BBC Sport •
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Arsene Wenger’s daylight offside proposal is moving forward after a nod from the International Football Association Board. The Canadian Premier League will test the rule in 2026, with the 28‑February Ifab meeting in Cardiff deciding whether the trial can launch. Fans in Canada will see the first full‑season experiment this.

The rule demands a clear gap between an attacker and the second‑to‑last defender, effectively the last defender, excluding the goalkeeper’s usual position. Critics warn it could tilt play heavily in favour of attackers, but Wenger argues a radical test is necessary before any global revision for the 2027‑28 European season.

Results from Canada will be presented to Ifab at year‑end, and if successful, other leagues may join the trial. The absence of VAR in the CPL adds complexity, yet the experiment could set a precedent for worldwide change. Football insiders will watch the 2026 kickoff for early signals and analysis.