RaceNet connection issues and slow loading since Sunday (DR2.0) — Is it just me?

Hi everyone! I need your help with Dirt Rally 2.0. The Steam community is pretty quiet, so I'm asking here.

I've been playing for about 3 months with absolutely zero connection issues. However, since last Sunday morning, I've been experiencing constant issues with RaceNet. The game connects very slowly, leaderboards take forever to load, and I've even gotten a "banned from RaceNet" error message a couple of times.

I'm playing on PC via a wired Ethernet connection. I did not make any changes to my system or network settings before these issues started.

I've already tried various network settings, both with and without a VPN, but the in-game connection issues remain exactly the same. I've also read advice about clearing the DNS cache and manually entering Google's DNS (8.8.8.8), though I haven't tried that yet as I'm currently away from my PC.

Right now, I'm trying to pinpoint the issue — is it just me, or has everyone else been experiencing this since Sunday? Would appreciate any insights. Thanks!