What is the first action a referee takes after the kickoff?

The correct action a referee takes after the kickoff is to blow the whistle to start the game. This is the formal signal that indicates the match is beginning and that play can commence. The whistle serves as a clear audio cue for players, coaching staff, and spectators that the game is in progress.

Before this, the referee will typically conduct pre-match checks and ensure that all players are in proper position, but the definitive action that launches the game is indeed the blowing of the whistle. Other considerations related to player readiness and crowd management happen prior to the kickoff, but the whistle is the critical element that initiates the match. Additionally, notifying teams of match duration is typically part of pre-match protocols, not an action taken immediately after the kickoff.