on the sidelines
US /ɑn ðə ˈsaɪdˌlaɪnz/
UK /ɑn ðə ˈsaɪdˌlaɪnz/
1.
not actively involved in something; observing rather than participating
:
•
He preferred to stay on the sidelines during the heated debate.
•
Many investors are currently sitting on the sidelines, waiting for the market to stabilize.