Uber doesn't inform drivers what they will be paid for a trip. Except where mandated by state law, they don't even inform them of the trip duration or destination until after it is accepted. It is hardly a marketplace when one side of the exchange knows next to nothing about what they will selling until after it is sold. Uber may not "fire" them, but failure to accept gigs will significantly impair your ability to be offered more in the future.

> They are a marketplace [...] negotiate prices on their behalf t

These two things are in fundamental conflict, which is part of the issue.

"They are a marketplace.. Uber to negotiate prices on their behalf"

Are you even hearing how ridiculous this sounds.

It's typical lawyerese. Outright propaganda, weasel words and contorted definitions are all uber has left too fight this battle, which is assuredly one of attrition.

Uber has numerous requirements for THEIR drivers. They must maintain certain standards for the car, they must accept this many trips etc. You or I are obviously Uber's customers, and we pay Uber for a ride from A to B. We are not in any way John's or Jill's customers, they work for Uber to take us from A to B. Even if they can be classified as contractors, they are contracting for Uber, not for Uber's customers - that much is undeniable.