**Aalesund and Start occupy the direct relegation spots in the 2026 Eliteserien table after 20 matches, with 18 and 16 points respectively, while Kristiansund sits 14th on 19 points and faces the relegation play-offs.** The newly promoted sides have struggled to adapt, posting poor goal differences and inconsistent results amid a competitive mid-to-lower table. Bodø/Glimt and Viking dominate the top, leaving the bottom three with limited momentum heading into the final third of the season, which concludes in December. Recent form shows the lower sides conceding heavily and picking up few wins, though Kristiansund retains a narrow buffer. Remaining fixtures, including derbies and matches against stronger sides, will shape whether the promoted clubs can mount late survival bids or if Kristiansund drops into the direct drop zone.