Yael Shelbia Says Her Romance With Lance Stroll Is Serious and Built for the Long Term

Israeli model Yael Shelbia gave her first interview after imposing a ban on questions about her ex, and confirmed that she is back together with Formula 1 driver Lance Stroll. Speaking to mako Celebs at an APRIL event, Shelbia, 24, said the past year was “crazy,” adding that she learned a great deal about herself and is now “at my peak.” Asked directly whether she is officially in a relationship, she replied, “Of course, do I need to say it officially? Yes, relationship, thank God.”

The couple’s relationship has been on and off several times. Shelbia said Stroll was “100 out of 100 from the beginning,” but that she needed a long time to open her heart because she had fears about his public life, constant travel and the demands of a high-profile relationship. “When it’s it, it just happens,” she said.

She also addressed concerns about Stroll’s background, after questions circulated over his Jewish identity. Shelbia said religion and Jewish tradition matter deeply to her, and stated plainly, “Yes, he is Jewish.” She explained that a photo she posted of Stroll wrapped in a tallit from his bar mitzvah was taken from a family trip where they were watching the bar mitzvah video, not from a planned statement.

Shelbia said she has already met his family in Canada and Monaco and described them as warm and kind. She acknowledged that a long-distance relationship is difficult, but said they are making it work. Looking ahead, she said she will always remain in Israel, at least part of the time, and described their current stage as getting to know each other and enjoying the relationship. On marriage, she said she still wants something real and lasting, adding that, with God’s help, it will come in time.