Abstract: A friction-driven roll comprises a stationary roll core with a supporting tube disposed over the roll core and a jacket tube rotatably mounted on the supporting tube. A plurality of elastic distension bodies are disposed between the roll core and the supporting tube and antifriction bearings are arranged between the supporting tube and the jacket tube. The supporting tube comprises a plurality of link sleeves arranged end to end with a joint therebetween and with a coupling sleeve embracing each two embracing link sleeves and the joints therebetween. The distension bodies comprise hollow fluid pressure cushions which are connected individually to fluid pressure supply.