Uber Puts Parts of Its European Expansion Strategy on Hold

Earlier this year, in February, Uber unveiled plans to expand into seven additional European markets in 2026. However, according to a Financial Times report, five of those planned launches have now been put on hold. The countries affected by the pause reportedly include Austria, Norway, and Greece.

Uber appeared to confirm the change in strategy to the Financial Times, explaining that its recent launches in Finland and Denmark had delivered “huge success.” The company said it now intends to focus on maintaining that momentum by strengthening its presence in the markets where it already operates.

Another factor that may have influenced the decision is Uber’s continued pursuit of Delivery Hero. The European delivery company rejected Uber’s €10 billion takeover proposal in May, but reports suggest Uber has not abandoned its interest in completing the acquisition.

According to an industry source, slowing further expansion across Europe could also help reduce potential antitrust concerns surrounding any future agreement. Delivery Hero already operates delivery businesses in several of the countries Uber had targeted for expansion, making regulatory scrutiny a key consideration if acquisition discussions continue.