The 2013 season was Sarpsborg 08's 2nd season in Tippeligaen, following their promotion back to the top level in 2012. It was also their first season with Brian Deane as the club's manager. Sarpsborg 08 competed in the Tippeligaen, finishing 14th, entering the Relegation play-offs in which they defeated Ranheim 3-0 over two legs. They also competed in the cup where they reached the Second Round, losing to Kvik Halden of the 2. divisjon.
Source: fotball.no Rules for classification: 1) points; 2) goal difference; 3) number of goals scored. (O) Play-off winners; (R) Relegated Notes:
^Norway was among the best three associations in the UEFA Fair Play ranking and thus received an additional spot in the first qualifying round of the Europa League, Tromsø IL received the qualifying spot for their ranking in Tippeligaen's Fair Play ranking.
^Kalnes, Petter; Rosted, Ole-Morten (8 August 2013). "Ernemann klar for Sarpsborg-spill" (in Norwegian). Sarpsborg Arbeiderblad. Retrieved 18 September 2013.