What happens if the ball touches the referee and goes out of play?

When the ball touches the referee and subsequently goes out of play, the rules specify that the game should be restarted with a drop ball. This is based on the principle that the referee, as part of the playing field, inadvertently affected the ball's course. It is essential that play is fair and that all players have the same opportunities; therefore, a drop ball ensures that neither team benefits or suffers due to the contact with the referee.

The other options would not apply because they pertain to specific situations that do not involve the referee's contact with the ball. A drop ball is the most appropriate and widely accepted way to resume play after such an incident, promoting fairness and consistency in the application of the game's rules.