And 1.5bn are set to tune in globally today to watch hosts Germany get the tournament underway as they face Costa Rica in the opening group stage game.
With England, Sweden and Argentina all in action over the weekend too, the tournament seems destined to break previous records.
FIFA agency Infront has sold rights to 200 countries, with 500 licence holders preparing to capitalise on the rights they pay a premium for.
Meanwhile, it is expected the domestic German TV audience today for the opening game is likely to come close to 20m.
After all the hype it is finally here – the FIFA World Cup 2006 kicks-off this evening in Germany and is set to smash TV viewing records.
