I was yellow at one game and I really hated the position. Everybody else can have 3 cities at turn 1 but white has to travel long way. Presence of three ruins doesn't make much difference since after opening them you cannot proceed on west without support troops. Also white has a bit disadvantage so yellow and white needs to be adjusted.
I disagree. Yellow and white both have their "backs" against a wall. That is an important strategic element. Compare their situation with dark blue or green, who are stuck between many powers.