This part of the user interface is really bold, and stands out from the gameplay/background. There is a drop shadow and a texture to make it more noticeable than the other parts. This is because your position in the game is the most important and being in first position is the most desirable part of the game, so you need to know where you are in the race.

The race map makes it easy for the player to know where they are on the map/track. It shrinks and desaturates the other players in the race, which de-clutters the map and makes it easier to know where the player is in relation to their opponents. It also shows which direction the player is facing.

The power-up icon sits in a darkened frame so it can be well distinguished compared to its background. The player must know what power-up he has to know when they should use it.

In comparison to the other parts of the HUD the lap time and progress are less important to the player. They are smaller and slightly harder to read in a glance. Progress is probably more important than the lap time, and is easier to read because their is less information to read.