In July 2000, Germany won the vote to stage the 18th World Cup in 2006. Since then, preparations have been slowly gathering pace in the host country as Germany works towards the goal of having everything in place by June 9, 2006 for the soccer world's global showpiece.

While teams of organizers all over the world play their part, the 32 finalists fine tune their squads and tactics ahead of the tournament next summer. It is a massive event, providing logistical and organizational challenges for everyone involved.

The World Cup is not just about the trophy -- the tournament's ultimate prize -- or the games that lead to that crowning moment. It is a process that involves many aspects, not just those related to the sport central to it.

Here, DW-WORLD presents a dossier of articles following news from the many facets of the World Cup, from Germany's acceptance as custodian to the final itself.