They were doubtless dancing in the streets of Madrid and Barcelona as Spain led the way in the Generali European Bridge Championships at the end of day one. They were the only team to record two maximums and are four Victory Points ahead of second placed Norway.

There was good news for supporters of the home team as Malta celebrated their debut in the Championships with a first round victory over Croatia. There were plenty of surprises with France falling to Bulgaria and Ireland defeating the Netherlands.

Greece had a tremendous day surprising both Denmark and Great Britain. Switzerland held Poland to a draw. The reigning Champions Italy made a solid start and are fifth, just behind Romania and Sweden.

After the first qualifying session Norway's Malinowskia and Ostmoe led the way with a massive 67.83%. They were closely followed by Turkey's Atalay and Babag on 67.62% with the Swedish pairing of Flodqvist and Strandberg third with 66.31.