^^ was exactly what I was thinking.

Maybe make it a race option you can set at the lobby. Like check a box for "pilot matching." To that effect, I think an accurate way to be able to ascertain a pilot's skill might be an overall average of race times through various events, or at the very least use completion rate as a method. Although the platinum trophy was particularly difficult to get (and I have 9 now on different accounts) it was still a challenge the first time. There is a huge difference between pilots that earned it and those that have not. If it was an option to enable/disable, it would allow someone to play with anyone of any skill if online participation was scarce at the moment while at the same time would allow for more competitive matchups when there was a larger online presence.

Also, the ranking system is horribly broken as is. I would hate to see the current ranking system dictate what accounted for "skill." I also have respect to novice pilots that want to take on seasoned veterans, so I think that if you wanted to you could join a game out of you abilities that should be allowed, but maybe have a warning pop up instead. There really isn't a perfect solution, but pilot matching is something I'm on board with.

I'd rather see them get rid of Eliminator over barrel rolls any day.