The 1980 season was Molde's 8th season in the top flight of Norwegian football and their first since their promotion from 2. divisjon in 1979. This season Molde competed in 1. divisjon (first tier) and the Norwegian Cup. In the league, Molde finished in 10th position, 11 points behind winners Start and were relegated to 2. divisjon. Molde participated in the 1980 Norwegian Cup. On 6 August, they were eliminated by Fredrikstad after a 1–2 defeat at Fredrikstad Stadion in the fourth round.