Roccaraso is set to stage the event for the third time after the 1996 and 2011 editions.

Sixteen National Federations have sent a senior men's team to compete at the Pala Bolino Arena, while 10 women's squads are additionally preparing to play.

There will also be tournaments for junior men, junior women and veteran men.

Elite action begins tomorrow, with Colombia facing Spain in the first game of the women's competition.

Barcelona in Spain hosted the previous tournament in 2019 where the United States reclaimed the men's title after the Czech Republic had won three of the previous four competitions.

Meanwhile in the women's event, the Americans are tipped to win their fourth consecutive title.

The 2021 event will act as a precursor for The World Games 2022 as the winner of the men's tournament will qualify for the event in Birmingham in Alabama.

World Skate has expressed its delight over the hosting of the event after the disappointment of cancelling the competition in 2020 - due to be staged in Cartagena in Colombia - because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

"We wish to thank our friends in the Colombian federation for their immense understanding, knowing that this is not goodbye, but see you again soon," said Sabatino Aracu, President of World Skate.

"Roccaraso represents one of the Inline hockey World Championships venues that is best remembered.

"We had very little time to make such a big decision, and the Abruzzo region in Italy came to our rescue!"

Andrea Fonzari, World Skate Technical Commission chair said: "We were all very excited and optimistic about organising the World Championship in Cartagena.

"During the technical inspection at the beginning of 2020, we verified the exceptional organisational work carried out by the friendly Colombian federation.

"Unfortunately, COVID ruined the plans for everyone.

"The desire to play this sport again is great, both among the players and among the organisers.

"We are taking responsibility to guarantee the maximum possible safety for all participants.

"Everyone in the World Skate organisation is working tirelessly in this respect."