Actually, since R - 0 there is only the wait list which now, per AC website, is according to status of person flying, as has been the case at the gate. The status of the upgrade sponsor figures in this case for the upgrade window, ie when the request can be made.

I should note that the upgrade sponsor would have to add the non status passenger to their nominee list for the rest of the year and then request the upgrade.

This nominee will be very low on a potential gate list without status, if I understand correctly.

As I have posted before, the confusion reigns and I am at a loss for the lack of transparency when the competition even posts waitlists at the gate and online...