[quietplatypus]

Not even true in that case, because races often come down to luck with pit stops and how aggressive other drivers are in protecting their space. If you can't pass the dude without rear ending him, you're not going to pass him, doesn't matter how better your "single-racer" driving skills or faster your car is on paper.

Even in footraces, the competitors still have influence on each other with drafting and late starting and whatnot.