Lel, who pulled out on the eve of last year's race with a hip problem, has again seen his ambitions to achieve a record fourth win wrecked by an injury to his right leg.

London Marathon race director Dave Bedford said: "It is very disappointing to lose Martin for the second year in a row.

"He is one of the greatest marathon runners in the world and one of London's great champions.

"We look forward to welcoming him back next year."

Lel may be an absentee but the London event, which takes place on on April 25, has again attracted a star-studded field with Olympic champion Sammy Wanjiru defending the title he won 12 months ago.

The women's race will also see Germany's Irina Mikitenko return to chase a third successive victory where she will face British hope Mara Yamauchi, who was second behind her in 2009.