I think you're right. France look a level above everyone else. Although, I could easily see Spain, England or Argentina winning it if France implode.
I do enjoy the tongue in cheek winding up of England fans, although some don't have much of a sense of humour. Being born and brought up in GB, and having a Geordie accent, I often feel a fraud compared to real Irish folks like yourselves. However, I am really really proud of my Irish heritage and love the country. But like generations of people, that interconnection of migration makes for complex relationships!