Action has begun at the World Roller Games ©FIRS

Gold medal favourites Spain opened their women's rink hockey account with a comfortable victory today as the first International Roller Sports Federation (FIRS) World Roller Games began in Nanjing.

Spain, who won last year's WorId Championship title in Iquique in Chile, began with an easy 7-0 victory over Germany at the Roller Skate Park.

France thrashed United States 27-0 in the other match in Group A in the Chinese city as the sport began the event. 

In Group B, world silver medallists Portugal were held to a 2-2 draw by Chile.

World bronze medallists Argentina dispatched Italy 4-0.

The Games are taking place for the first time in one city, seeing the World Championships of 10 roller disciplines take place simultaneously.

It is due to take place over the course of 15 days featuring different competitions and held at indoor and outdoor facilities. 

World champions Spain opened with a comfortable victory ©FIRS
World champions Spain opened with a comfortable victory ©FIRS

Events will consist of artistic, speed, rink hockey, inline hockey, roller freestyle, skateboarding, inline freestyle, inline downhill, roller derby and inline Alpine.

It will last until September 10.

Around 4,000 athletes spanning 50 countries are due to compete.