Problem with driver swapping during endurance races

Hi everyone, I'm having a problem with driver swapping during endurance races, using a Corvette GT3.

I'm simulating the IMSA championship by doing 2-hour races and alternating in the pits with the AI, using the "driver swap" feature. My first stint goes great, without any problems, then the AI kicks in and I take over again for the third stint.

From this point on, the car is much slower than before. It's not a driving issue, because I drive exactly the same way, but my times are 6 or 8 seconds slower than the first stint.

When the AI comes back in for the fourth stint, the times return to normal, but only for the AI.

I tried recalibrating the steering wheel to see if it was a pedal issue, but it didn't help. It seems the car is much slower on the straights after being driven by the AI.

I only noticed the problem in January. Before that, it didn't seem to be happening.

Has anyone noticed this behavior and can suggest a solution?

Thanks!