Start and Aalesund, two of the three teams promoted from the 2025 OBOS-ligaen, occupy the direct relegation spots after 17 matchweeks in the 2026 Eliteserien, with Start on 10 points and a -22 goal difference while Aalesund sits on 15 points and -14. Kristiansund, also on 15 points, holds the relegation playoff position. These sides have recorded the league’s worst recent form, including heavy defeats and an inability to convert chances, in contrast to mid-table stability from sides like Sandefjord and KFUM. With 13 rounds remaining, the promoted clubs face a demanding schedule against established teams, reinforcing the current table order that shapes trader consensus on likely direct relegations.