Defending champion Martin Lel of Kenya has failed to recover from the right hip injury he sustained during his final training session last weekend and has been forced to withdraw from tomorrow's Flora London Marathon.
Lel was hoping to win his fourth London title but after a late fitness test this afternoon has been advised to withdraw by medical staff.
Lel said: "I am very disappointed not to be able to compete for my fourth Flora London Marathon title but I need to be cautious. The injury is not serious but the pain means I wouldn't be at my best tomorrow."
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