Three-time champion Martin Lel out of London Marathon again

KENYA's three-time champion Martin Lel has pulled out of this month's London Marathon for the second successive year, citing a leg injury.

RULED OUT: For the second successive year, Kenya's Martin Lel will miss the London Marathon through injury (Getty Images)

The 31-year-old, who won the annual race in 2005, 2007 and 2008, was forced to forgo the chance to defend his crown last year, pulling out on the eve of the race with a hip injury.

Lel clocked 2:05.15 hours en route to victory in 2008 - a then course record - only to see compatriot Sammy Wanjiru better that time by just five seconds last year.

But an injury to his right leg ensures Lel will miss the chance to try and regain the crown.

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

"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."

While Lel will miss out on April 25, Wanjiru will be back to defend his crown as will Germany's Irina Mikitenko in the women's race, who will bid for a third straight title.

Great Britain's Paula Radcliffe, who won the London Marathon in 2002, 2003 and 2005, will be absent from this year's race, having announced she is expecting a second child, but compatriot Mara Yamauchi, second last year, will take to the field.