If it meant less and less as the distances increased you would see lower numbers from the best ultra guys but you don't.
What you do see is all runners who expect to excel having high numbers.
Doesn't mean you don't add to that with great economy and a high lactate threshold.
You need it all.
Nobody said a high number means you will excel at the marathon if your body is that of a skier cyclist or swimmer.
All of those athletes have high numbers though.