Ecclestone was long linked with the series when the scale of its financial dilemma became apparent. His friendship with then CEO Chris Pook heightened speculation, although most assumed nothing concrete lay behind the rumours.
Speaking to the US media, Ecclestone said: “They waited for me to raise the necessary amount before they signed on others, but I just couldn't get the money together.”
He also said the best result would have been a merger between CART and rival series the Indy Racing League.
He added: “We'll have to wait and see how they survive. I was hoping to get them together with the IRL and then I think it would have worked.”
CART’s assets were snapped up by the Open Wheel Racing Series group at the end of last year.
