[Tim Masson]

But I don't know why any evaluation system should be used to exclude anybody to begin with, since we can simply split anyone who failed to reach the standard into their own server. This is the case regardless of whether it's a ratings standard, a pre-quali exercise, or a licensing system. So my thinking is that nobody needs to be turned away from a series if they can be split into another server. Is this wrong?

Not wrong, and a valid point. We should try our experiment (should it ever happen) in a way that allows "unqualified" drivers (however that is defined) to compete on an alternate server.

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Yup, I did that exactly that with the rFactor 1 AI when I started sim racing. I thought when I'm able to navigate around those utter idiots, I should be okay in an online race against real people

Yup! I did that also, but it didn't prepare me for the shear lunacy of a supposedly human driver open-wheel race at Monza or Imola...