Fans had been wondering whether there was more than friendship between the pair, especially after some viewers noticed they wore similar necklaces during the competition.
Speaking to New Idea, Annabel shut down the speculation and said she and Vinnie are close friends.
The Necklace Theory Was Not What Fans Thought
The matching-jewellery theory was one of the main details that kept the rumour bubbling online, but Annabel explained that the necklaces had totally different meanings.
Vinnie's necklace was an Italian horn, while Annabel said hers was a piece of coral from her mother's friend, not a chilli or a secret romantic clue.
The speculation also picked up after Sarah Todd and Declan Cleary appeared on the 2026 season with their twins, prompting Annabel to wonder aloud whether there might be a "Sarah and Declan" in the new group.
Annabel said there was no hidden meaning behind the comment, despite fans quickly connecting it back to her friendship with Vinnie.
So, for now, this one seems to be a classic reality TV fan theory rather than a confirmed romance.
MasterChef Australia crowned Vinnie Gibaldi as its 2026 winner earlier this year.
