Runwide

Runwide is a term used in sports to describe movement toward or along the wide, outer parts of a playing area, or leaving the intended racing line. It is typically used as a noun or verb phrase: "to run wide" or "a run wide."

In football (soccer) and other field sports, a run wide refers to a player or ball carrier moving toward the touchline to attack from the flank, often to stretch a defense, create space, or provide crossing options. Wingers, full-backs, and midfielders may execute runs wide as part of build-up play or a counterattack. The tactic can open gaps for teammates and may require quick decision-making to exploit the created space, while also risking being isolated or offside if not supported.

In rugby union and rugby league, running wide means stepping or breaking toward the sideline to bypass central defenders, with the aim of creating space for inside runners or drawing defenders away to open up attacking options.

In motorsport and racing, to run wide means to leave the preferred racing line and drift toward the outer edge of the track, often onto a run-off area or grass. It typically results from braking errors or late turn-in and can cost time, track position, or invite penalties depending on the series rules.

The term is common in live commentary and analysis and is used across disciplines to describe a player or vehicle moving toward the periphery of the playing surface. It is distinct from cutting inside or making an inside run, which targets central space.