>>530418932
>>530418572
>>530418865
it's all true in a vacuum
but in the actual game front runners minimize risk by not having to go on the outside to pass

the front runner, assuming it's been in the front for the entire race, can maintain an ideal racing line, while a late has to not just close the gap with higher speed, but also additional length of passing not just the 1st place front runner, but any weaker front runners who fell behind, all while competing with other lates and paces

in essence a late horse will have a better lap time as the only horse on the track, but the runner in front will be the only horse on the track racing as though it's the only horse on the track, while the late has every horse in front of it tripping it up