The publication of exciting new book Lionel Messi and the Art of Living will be celebrated at a special launch event in central London on Wednesday 24 October.

The book’s author Andy West will join members of the Penya Blaugrana London, the official fan club for FC Barcelona supporters in the UK, at their traditional meeting place Bar&Co – ‘the party boat rocking the Thames’ – to watch the Champions League clash against Inter Milan.

West, BBC Sport’s Spanish football writer, will present the ideas explored in the book at 7pm, an hour before kick-off, and then sell signed copies during half-time and after the game. Bar&Co is moored at Temple Pier and admission is free for all, sales by cash only.

Lionel Messi and the Art of Living, to be published on October 22, is a bold, insightful and unique examination of a world famous sporting hero from an entirely new perspective, providing a context extending far beyond the football field.

Although the details of Messi's story are already well known, this book studies afresh and anew his glorious triumphs and his desperate failures, his ongoing evolution and his endless struggle to succeed. It encourages us to analyse and think about his career from a different viewpoint, revealing how his journey can be related to our own lives on a meaningful and impactful level.

Containing extensive and illuminating exclusive interviews with deep thinkers and high achievers from a number of fields, including Messi’s close friend and long-time international teammate Pablo Zabaleta, the book delivers a vibrant and inspiring approach to a global icon, and ensures you will never look at Lionel Messi – or life – in the same way again.

Click here for more information on Lionel Messi and the Art of Living.