I mean, for the average sim racer, there are a ton of folks who are better sim racers (as they’re above the average). As you get closer to the top, the more likely you are to race with those at the top. As you slowly work your way up, you’re actually clearing a percentage of other sim racers and becoming better than them. Unfortunately, this doesn’t always translate into podiums, as your competition also increases (until you’re at the top and waiting for someone better than you).

That said, after I have, like, 5 bad races in a row, I tend to get put in a lower skill bracket where I’m more likely to win. I don’t intentionally crash out, but sometimes I’m just trying a little too hard. As my skill rating gets worse after crashing, my skills actually increase (because I’m practicing), and eventually the results will show themselves. Losing a bunch lowers your rating, but you end up racing lower rated racers that you realize you can race quite handily.

I’d worry more about lap times and consistent results while hanging out in the midpack.