diff --git a/cpu/cortexm_common/vectors_cortexm.c b/cpu/cortexm_common/vectors_cortexm.c
index 989b0207bb..95bee97f18 100644
--- a/cpu/cortexm_common/vectors_cortexm.c
+++ b/cpu/cortexm_common/vectors_cortexm.c
@@ -181,6 +181,9 @@ void reset_handler_default(void)
     dbgpin_init();
 #endif
 
+    /* initialize the CPU */
+    cpu_init();
+
     /* initialize the board (which also initiates CPU initialization) */
     board_init();