Uber CEO Apologizes After London Ban

Just days after the Transport for London (TfL) decided against renewing its license to operate in the city when it expires September 30, Uber's new CEO Dara Khosrowshahi issued an apology.

The new chief executive also vowed to make improvements.

The TfL said Uber poses risks to public safety and criticized the company's approach to reporting serious criminal offenses and conducting background checks.

"While Uber has revolutionized the way people move in cities around the world, it’s equally true that we’ve got things wrong along the way. On behalf of everyone at Uber globally, I apologize for the mistakes we’ve made," Khosrowshahi said in a letter published Monday. "We will appeal [against] the decision on behalf of millions of Londoners, but we do so with the knowledge that we must also change."

"We won't be perfect, but we will listen to you; we will look to be long-term partners with the cities we serve; and we will run our business with humility, integrity and passion."

Uber will appeal the TfL decision, which could take up to a year. The company will be allowed to operate in London throughout the appeals process.

You have my commitment that @Uber will work with #London to make things right and keep this great global city moving safely. pic.twitter.com/MZbDS6fYQL

— dara khosrowshahi (@dkhos) September 25, 2017

In addition to the apology, Uber started a petition to reverse the ban. It's received more than 775,000 signatures as of Monday afternoon.

London Mayor Sadiq Khan, who openly supported last week's ruling, believes the apology is an ideal first step.

"Obviously I am pleased that he has acknowledged the issues that Uber faces in London. Even though there is a legal process in place, I have asked TfL to make themselves available to meet with him," Khan said in a statement.

READ MORE: Uber's License Revoked in London

Khosrowshahi took over as Uber's CEO last month, replacing Travis Kalanick, who was ousted amid a series of scandals.

If Uber's appeal in London is unsuccessful as many as 40,000 drivers and 3.5 million riders could be affected. Additionally, other cities could take a similar stance, potentially jeopardizing the app's operations in other key markets.

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