If a player answers a dropped ball by kicking it directly out of bounds, what is the restart?

When a player kicks the ball directly out of bounds following a dropped ball, the game is interrupted for a reason that is directly tied to the circumstances of the dropped ball itself. The Laws of the Game stipulate that if the ball is dropped and then immediately kicked out of play without any other player touching it, the correct procedure is to retake the dropped ball. This ensures that the principle of fairness and continuity of play is maintained, allowing both teams the opportunity to contest the ball correctly from that position.

Retaking the dropped ball serves to rectify the situation, allowing the game to proceed under regulations that prioritize proper restart methods and player engagement with the ball. Thus, the restart in this scenario is a retake of the dropped ball, promoting the integrity of the game and ensuring all players have a chance to participate following the initial drop.