Uber is facing a significant legal challenge from nearly 11,000 Hackney cab drivers in London, with claims reaching into the millions of pounds. The lawsuit, the latest blow to the ride-hailing company in the UK capital, alleges that Uber misled Transport for London (TfL) to secure its operating license.

According to litigation management firm RGL Management, the claim could amount to £250 million, potentially yielding £25,000 for each cab driver involved. An Uber spokesperson dismissed the allegations, stating to the sources, “These old claims are completely unfounded,” affirming Uber’s compliance with London’s regulations and its pride in serving millions of passengers and drivers in the city.

The legal action centers on Uber’s activities in London from May 2012 to March 2018. The claimants argue that Uber’s objective was to unlawfully undercut existing black cab drivers, as stated in a release by RGL.

Garry White, a black cab driver with 36 years of experience, emphasized the impact on drivers, stating, “Uber seems to believe it is above the law, and cabbies across London have suffered loss of earnings because of it.”

The group action has been filed in the High Court by law firm Mishcon de Reya, representing the claimants. Richard Leedham, partner and head of commercial disputes at Mishcon de Reya, criticized Uber for its alleged non-compliance with private hire vehicle regulations in London.

Uber has encountered numerous hurdles in London and other global cities. In 2017, TfL declined to renew Uber’s license, citing concerns about corporate responsibility and public safety. Despite Uber’s appeals, it faced a similar denial two years later. However, in 2022, Uber secured a two-and-a-half-year license extension, valid until September.

London’s black cab drivers have staged protests against Uber, highlighting tensions in the transportation sector. Earlier this year, Uber agreed to settle a lawsuit in Australia for A$271.8 million, resolving claims of income loss due to Uber’s expansion in the country.

In December 2023, Uber prevailed in a lawsuit brought by 2,500 taxi drivers in France, with a Paris commercial court ruling in favor of Uber, dismissing allegations of unfair competition.

Headquartered in San Francisco and operating in over 70 countries and 10,000 cities worldwide, Uber continues to navigate legal challenges and regulatory scrutiny.